Meet the Team

Garth Lappeman, the founder of SocialEssence, possesses extensive experience in social impact and risk management, particularly in resettlement and land acquisition across various sectors globally. With expertise in international social standards from prominent organizations, Garth has worked on numerous projects in diverse locations, showcasing his practical implementation skills and strong work ethic. He is recognized for his ability to navigate complex issues among influential stakeholders while upholding integrity, making him a valuable asset with a blend of technical proficiency and stakeholder management acumen.

James Askwith is a director at SocialEssence with 12 years of experience in managing social and community impacts of large development projects, especially in infrastructure, energy, and extractives. He has a BSc in Environmental Science and a Master's in River Catchment Management and Geographical Education from the University of Leeds. After working briefly in the UK wind industry, he gained extensive experience at Synergy Global Consulting and AECOM, focusing on social impact assessments, resettlement plans, and human rights due diligence across Africa and the Middle East. Passionate about learning from local communities, James is also a musician active in bands in Oxford, UK.

Liam Flanagan, a senior consultant at SocialEssence since November 2022, holds degrees in International Relations and Political Risk from Stellenbosch University and SIT Graduate Institute in Geneva, respectively. With previous experience at ACCORD, the Geneva Desk for Cooperation, and as a researcher for Kyrgyzstan's Ambassador, Liam has worked on diverse projects across mining, renewable energy, and linear sectors in various countries. He is familiar with international standards and enjoys sports, particularly football, rugby, and cricket, in his current residence of Cape Town.

Kharuna Velloo holds an Honours in International Relations and a Master's in Public Policy from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She started her career as a Monetary Policy Analyst Intern, focusing on policy analysis and climate change, before joining SocialEssence as a Social Consultant in 2024. Kharuna specializes in Social Impact Assessment and Land Acquisition, leading ESG initiatives on projects like the Kasiya Rutile and Graphite project in Malawi. Her research has explored the impact of COVID-19 on democracy and disaster management in BRICS nations. Known for her critical thinking and time management skills, Kharuna also enjoys gaming and sports, reflecting her strategic mindset and commitment to social change.

Lindo Masumpa, a consultant at SocialEssence in Cape Town since August 2022, holds a BSocSc Honours in Environmental and Geographical Science from the University of Cape Town, with training in Social Impact Assessment and other related fields from institutions like the University of Strathclyde and University of Groningen. Passionate about addressing socio-economic challenges in the Global South, Lindo focuses on implementing livelihood programs in project-affected communities to mitigate impacts and improve livelihoods. He has experience working on projects in various countries and enjoys sports and outdoor activities outside of work.

Joanna holds an Honours degree in International Studies from Stellenbosch University. Prior to completing her postgraduate studies, she worked part-time at SocialEssence, where she shadowed senior team members and completed training in mitigation and enhancement strategies, Social Impact Assessment, Quantum GIS, survey development, socio-economic baseline analysis and household engagement with vulnerable communities. Through her undergraduate and postgraduate studies, Joanna developed a strong foundation in risk analysis, conflict and peace studies in Africa, geopolitics and public policy analysis. During her Honours degree, she undertook academic research on Nigeria’s capacity to comply with World Bank conditionalities, strengthening her understanding of international development finance, governance frameworks and policy implementation challenges.

Guy Hammond brings over 33 years of practical experience in agriculture and conservation, with 15 years specializing in livelihood restoration. Starting in Zimbabwe's commercial farming sector, he has led successful projects across Tanzania, Malawi, DRC, and Zambia. Guy is renowned for implementing Conservation Farming techniques, achieving up to 400% yield improvements through sustainable permaculture methods. He established the Kansanshi Foundation's conservation training centre, which trains 6000 farmers annually. Currently operating his own commercial banana farm in Zambia and managing a carbon sequestration project in Zimbabwe, Guy's practical farming expertise makes him invaluable in social performance and livelihood restoration.

Garth Seneque brings over three decades of international experience in social performance and resettlement across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. With a Master's in Town and Regional Planning and expertise in post-conflict refugee resettlement and displacement, he has successfully managed projects in Afghanistan, Mozambique, Indonesia, and Kosovo. A trained mediator and founding member of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Association of Southern Africa, he currently serves as a Social Safeguards specialist for World Bank and Asian Development Bank funded projects in Afghanistan.

Daniel Wilson is a founder member of EduAction and has experience in database development, resettlement, GIS and socio-economic analysis. He has an Honours Degree in Human Geography and a Masters in GIS from the University of Leeds, UK. He specializes in helping clients make effective use of information for decision-making and policy support. He has developed numerous decision-support tools and training courses for clients throughout Africa.