Although academically trained as a Human Geographer (BA) and Spatial Planner (BSc Honours) at the University of the Free State, Sinoyolo Ngcepe’s initial practical experience was as a teacher with a strong interest in child development. Working with children developed an interest in the different ecosystems in which children live and grow. This, together with being a ‘new mom’, has inspired her to explore the powerful influence of the micro and macro systems on the health and well-being of children.