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.

With over a decade of experience in corporate consulting, Ed Wilson is an accomplished Programme Director specializing in global change and transformation projects. He holds a BA (Hons) in Sociology, an MBA from Imperial College London, and a Master's in Sustainable Business from the University of Cambridge. Driven by a desire for more meaningful work, Ed transitioning into social performance and resettlement planning, with a focus on fostering sustainable livelihood initiatives in rural communities. Based in Durban, Ed enjoys an active lifestyle, including golfing, running, and surfing, while embracing the vibrant culture of the KwaZulu-Natal region and the wider continent.

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 Maehler, a part-time Junior Social Consultant at SocialEssence, holds a Bachelor's Degree in Humanities and Social Science from Stellenbosch University, with a major in Political Science and English. Currently pursuing postgraduate Honours in International Relations or Political Science, Joanna gained expertise in various Political Science subfields during her studies, including political risk analysis, public policy analysis, and conflict and peace studies in Africa. Her experience as a student journalist at Die Matie Student Independent Newspaper honed her research, writing, and analytical skills, providing a strong foundation for her consultancy role.

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.