The candidate for CAPEXIT for Ward 83 Strand was appointed 23 May 2025.
Meet Leon Lourens.
**Leon Lourens**
**Ward 83 Councillor Candidate – Strand, Cape Town**
I am a dedicated South African conservationist, environmental manager, and community leader with over 35 years of hands-on experience in nature conservation, resource management, and community development. Born on 6 July 1968 at De Hoop Nature Reserve in Bredasdorp, I have spent my entire career protecting the Western Cape’s unique biodiversity while serving the people who live in these areas.
Holding a Master’s Degree in Nature Conservation from Cape Technikon, I have progressed from field conservator to senior management positions in CapeNature, SANParks (Table Mountain National Park), and various municipalities. My expertise includes project management of large-scale environmental programmes such as Working for Water, Working on Fire, invasive species control, and catchment management. I have successfully managed multi-million rand budgets, infrastructure, teams, and complex stakeholder relationships across national, provincial, and local government.
As a lifelong resident of the Grabouw-Elgin-Theewaterskloof area (with strong ties to Gordon’s Bay and Strand), I am deeply committed to practical service delivery, environmental sustainability, and uplifting local communities. I have served on numerous community structures including the Grabouw High School Governing Body (as Chairperson), Theewater-Groenland Fire Protection Association (as Fire Protection Officer and Executive Member), church councils, and tourism bodies.
I am a married father of two, a strong Christian, and a disciplined, innovative leader who values honesty, teamwork, and results. My goal as Ward Councillor for Ward 83 is to bring professional management, environmental responsibility, and genuine care to local issues — ensuring our communities are safer, cleaner, greener, and better served. I look forward to serving the residents of Strand with integrity and dedication.