Hi, we’re the Esteys!
We love people! During our first visit to Buffelsrivier in 2016, we quickly realised this was our new home. Ever since, we’ve remained inspired by the community and all it has to offer.
Our passion to help unlock the potential in others drives our work. With different academic, professional, and ‘life’ backgrounds, together we are pioneering an alternative, holistic approach to community and economic development. We hope to be living examples of how to turn dreams into reality for everyone we encounter.
NEAL ESTEY
Neal is passionate about helping vulnerable individuals, households, and communities recognise their own capacities and power to change their lives for the better. With over 10 years of experience as a consultant, research director, and attorney, Neal understands the multidimensional challenges facing vulnerable populations, as well as the critical role they play in shaping solutions from the ground up.
Neal loves camping with his wife and daughter, playing guitar, and trying different activities that allow him to create something new – the best activities are the ones that his 7 year old daughter gets excited about!
JULIE ESTEY
Julie holds a master’s degree in clinical social work and has a passion for working with hurting people. Her 15+ years of experience in the field have taught her the importance of listening, acceptance and self-determination. An entrepreneur at heart, she hopes to share this passion with others and guide them through the steps to reach their personal goals.
Julie loves physically challenging herself, especially through competitive endurance running, and enjoys camping, singing and spending time with her family.
Hi, we’re NOT the Esteys!
we’ve both been involved with shaping bloom since before its inception and are excited to officially be part of the team!
ANGELA STEVENS
From a young age Angela aspired to sit at a desk and tell people what they legally can and cannot do. She has been an attorney for 12 years, spending eight in private practice as a corporate attorney, specializing in mergers and acquisitions. Angela now leads a team negotiating contracts for a global company that focuses on improving water quality. She thoroughly enjoys mentoring her team members and watching them grow and is thrilled to be a part of Bloom’s team.
Angela loves going on nature walks, looking for birds, volunteering as a Master Naturalist and helping her son and husband experience the beauty of nature. She also loves traveling (especially to Africa) and meeting new people on her travels.
SUSAN KLEINFELD
Susan is no stranger to thinking outside the box and loving people right where life has them. Growing up as a pastor’s kid, she frequently had the opportunity to serve others and encounter brokenness within her own community. After graduating in 2005 with a degree in communications, Susan explored other fields until she went overseas herself. It was at that time that she realized her passion in life truly is to love people; to see people as people and help them recognize their own value and unique giftedness. She is excited to partner with Bloom as they impact the community of Buffelsrivier.
Susan loves spending time outside, baking, having adventures with her spouse and 3 kids, and grabbing a few moments of quiet to tackle a knitting or cross-stitch project.