Christelle Taute

She’s a force. She’s a lifeline. She is a glimmer of hope. She is Non Smit. Today we get to know the woman behind Multiple Sclerosis South Africa a little better. While it is impossible to capture the full depth of her journey, we asked Non a few questions to understand the heart behind the work. 1. You are the CEO of Multiple Sclerosis South Africa, but how did you initially get involved? “It was 1982. My late husband was diagnosed with MS after experiencing symptoms since 1975. We had been to 53 different doctors before he finally went for his first MRI. MRI was still new in South Africa at the time, and that is when we finally received the diagnosis. At the time, we struggled to find the practical support we needed. That experience motivated me to help strengthen and develop more structured support for others. I recognised the gap immediately. I did not step into this work looking for a position. I stepped into it because I saw a need and could not ignore it.” 2. What makes MSSA successful? “MSSA is certainly no island and I cannot do this on my own. People living with MS who serve on our committee make all the difference. Our neurologists, partners and supporters all play a role. But the true foundation of MSSA is the people living with MS themselves. Their stories and lived experiences shaped the support structure we have today. When I speak to someone with MS, there is often an immediate understanding. We do not have to explain everything in detail. We know. That connection is precious and deeply enriching. Many people think I simply run a WhatsApp support group. Those groups are vital. But the work stretches far beyond that. The lived experiences shared daily, inform advocacy at national and international level. We participate in global platforms and represent South African voices in broader African and international spaces. Whether responding to a personal crisis or contributing in an advisory meeting, the heartbeat remains the same: the person living with MS.” 3. Is MSSA respected by neurologists? “Yes, particularly those who work closely with us. We have neurologists serving on our Medical and Scientific Advisory Board, and we collaborate with many others. Mutual respect has been built over years of consistent, patient-centred work.” 4. Describe a typical day. “No day is the same. I prepare the evening before and the office opens at 9:00. Between appointments I liaise with the Department of Social Development, pharmaceutical companies and international affiliates. I write proposals and respond to practical and emotional crises. My goal is to bring people together and create structure where there is uncertainty. My husband Mark has been an extraordinary support. His steady encouragement and practical involvement over the years have allowed me to build MSSA into what it is today. He has delivered groceries to patients in crisis, transported equipment and stepped in quietly wherever help was required.” 5. What advice would you give to your successor? “They would need strong expertise in MS and a clear understanding of governance and financial responsibilities. Listening skills are vital, especially understanding what is behind what is being said. Compassion and structure must work together. It is important to separate emotions from difficult decisions and think carefully before reacting.” 6. Is there a quote that motivates you? “Strength is not loud. It is the quiet commitment to show up again tomorrow.” 7. What is your greatest source of inspiration? “Ordinary people living with MS inspire me daily. Their determination to live fully despite uncertainty keeps me grounded.” 8. What are your hobbies? “I enjoy spur-of-the-moment gardening, painting walls, making delicious food, baking, reading cookbooks and visiting wine estates. Mostly, I treasure time with my cats.” 9. What other jobs have you had? “I have been a coach, an ophthalmic assistant and worked in multi-level marketing. At one stage I was the sole breadwinner with two children at university. Every role taught me resilience.” 10. What qualities do you look for in friends? “Loyalty and honesty.” 11. How do you maintain work-life balance? “I am conscious about taking time for myself. It is necessary for sustainability.” 12. If you could go back in time, would you do anything differently? “I would have been more present for my children and focused less on solving every problem.” 13. What food would you choose for your last meal? “Soft, pink lamb rump.” 14. What is your guilty pleasure? “A glass of MCC Brut most days. A good bottle stopper is essential.” 15. How would you like to be remembered? “I would like people to say I was kind.” 16. Tell us more about your family. “I have two sons. My son André, his wife Annél, and my two granddaughters. Then my son Eugène, who has an adopted son, Zak, who is my grandson. I am deeply proud of the men my sons have become and the families they raise. André is a humanitarian living abroad, working on global issues and contributing meaningfully in international spaces. His wife, Annél, is a scientist. Together they are deeply committed to raising and guiding their two daughters with presence and intention. My granddaughters bring enormous joy to our lives. Ella plays the cello and several other instruments, takes on leading roles in school productions, and speaks multiple languages. Ibbie has a deep interest in academics and is steadily discovering where she would like to make her own impact in the world. Both are kind, thoughtful and exceptionally bright young girls, and we are immensely proud of them. Eugène adopted Zak when he was still a toddler. Although Eugène later divorced, he remained fully committed as Zak’s father. He supported him through school and into his studies. Today Zak is a successful young programmer. Zak shares a close and loving bond with his father, whom he affectionately calls ‘Pappa Gina.’ I am also blessed with Mark, who has walked alongside me in this work for many