About Us

At Explore Abroad, we believe that travel changes everything. Our mission is to empower young South Africans to dream bigger, go further, and experience the adventure of a lifetime through au pair and cultural exchange programs.

Founded by Nadine van Wyngaardt — who began her own journey as an au pair in the USA — Explore Abroad was built from real experience, passion, and a love for cultural exchange. Nadine knows firsthand how life-changing these opportunities can be, and her story inspired the vision behind Explore Abroad.

But it’s not just about one journey — it’s about all of us. Today, our dedicated team is here to guide, support, and cheer you on every step of the way. From your first questions to boarding your flight, we make sure you feel confident, prepared, and excited for what’s ahead.

For us, it’s more than just sending au pairs abroad. It’s about creating a community of young women who return home with new skills, lifelong friendships, and memories they’ll carry forever.

Your adventure starts here — and we can’t wait to help you write your story.

Meet The Team

Founder & CEO

Nadine van Wyngaardt

I'm Nadine van Wyngaardt, the founder of Explore Abroad and a passionate advocate for cultural exchange. My journey began in 2015 when I became an Au Pair in the USA—an experience that sparked my love for travel and inspired my mission to help others do the same. Since 2017, I’ve been dedicated to empowering young South Africans to explore the world, grow through new experiences, and create lasting memories abroad.

Recruiter

Dianika Cronje

My name is Dianika Cronje, and I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to work as an au pair in both the USA and the Netherlands. I loved every moment of it—not only because I could help children grow into confident, happy individuals, but also because I was able to learn from different parenting styles, cultures, and ways of life. Living abroad taught me adaptability and patience, and it was a joy to build genuine connections with families from around the world. 

Now, as an Au Pair Recruiter, my goal is to help others step into this life-changing experience. I’m here to guide and support them in finding the right families, so they too can create unforgettable memories, grow personally, and discover the world—just as I did.

Recruiter + Social Media Manager

Roma Roux

I’m Roma Roux. I lived abroad in the UAE and UK for nearly 17 years, where I had the incredible opportunity to experience different cultures, travel widely, meet people from all walks of life, and grow in ways I never expected. My journey abroad sparked my passion for cultural exchange.

As an Au Pair Recruiter, I love being part of each Au Pair’s journey—helping them step into their own adventures, discover the world, and build confidence and skills that will shape their future. I can’t wait to see you start your own adventure, and I’ll be here to support you every step of the way.

Recruiter

Celeste Dos Santos

Hi there! I'm Celeste. I was an Au pair in the Netherlands in 2024. Au Pairing was an amazing experience for me. I gained independence, a different perspective and insight into what makes life worth living.

Au Pairing taught me compassion, patience, communication skills and resilience. I am passionate about helping people to embark on the Au Pairing journey, because I believe it is a worthwhile one.

Recruiter

Monya van der Westhuizen

Hi, my name is Monya! I was an Au Pair in The Netherlands from 2024 to 2025 and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I loved exploring new cultures, building strong bonds with my host family, and watching the children grow and learn. I’m passionate about helping other young people experience the same adventure, because it truly broadens your horizons and changes your perspective on life.

Recruiter

Lizl Smit

I am Lizl, currently staying on the outskirts of Pretoria. I have been in the Travel and Work Abroad industry for over 15 years, assisting South Africans to work abroad in various countries.

I love working with young ladies, helping them to make their dream of Au Pairing Abroad, a reality!

Recruiter

Chane de Plooy

I’m Chané de Plooy, Recruiter for Explore Abroad and a former Au Pair in the Netherlands and Belgium. My time abroad taught me independence, cultural awareness, and personal growth - lessons that shaped my life in ways I never imagined.

Now, I help young South Africans begin their own journeys as Au Pairs. From applications to settling in, I support them every step of the way, and it’s a privilege to be part of their stories as they grow, explore, and return with a sense of confidence, purpose and a new spark in their eyes. 

Recruiter

Leane Gey van Pittius

Hi my name is Leané Gey van Pittius. I’m a very ambitious girl, full of energy and always busy with something. I am here to help you start your Au Pair journey with Explore Abroad and I am excited to see your adventure unfold.

Recruiter

Nalien van Loo

I am Nalien and I am 24 years old. I was an Au Pair in the Netherlands. I want to help other young South Africans Au Pair abroad, because I learnt so much about myself during my Au Pair year. I made new friends, I got to live out one of my dreams by watching the F1, and I got to see different countries in Europe. I am now back in South Africa and I fell in love with my now Fiancé.

Recruiter

Leslie van Zyl

I worked as an Au Pair locally in South Africa and absolutely loved the experience of working with children, which led me to become an ECD teacher. When my daughter showed interest in Au Pairing abroad, I wanted her to have that same meaningful experience, just on a bigger stage. That’s what sparked my passion for helping young people find Au Pair opportunities overseas through Recruitment. It’s incredibly rewarding to guide others toward something that shaped my own journey.