Mr John Henderson, United States of America
Bio & Abstract: Mr John Henderson
Mr John Henderson, United States of America
Biography
John Henderson is a Certified Parks and Recreation Executive and city planner with over 25 years of experience in parks and recreation. John earned a Juris Doctor degree from The John Marshall Law School, a Bachelor's in Community Planning from the University of Cincinnati, and a Certificate in Public Performance Measurement from Rutgers University. He also holds certifications in public participation, mediation, and arbitration and is a licensed attorney. John recently became Executive Director of Park Rx America, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that promotes the park prescription model developed and pilot-tested by Dr. Robert Zarr in the District of Columbia. John Henderson was with the Chicago Park District for 12 years, where he was Director of Research, Planning, and Evaluation and 16 years with The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, where he served as Research and Evaluation Manager in the Department of Parks and Recreation.
Dr Marlene le Roux, South Africa
Bio & Abstract: Dr Marlene le Roux
Dr Marlene le Roux, South Africa
Biography
Marlene le Roux is the CEO of Artscape Theatre in Cape Town, the first woman of colour to take the helm at Cape Town’s biggest theatre. She’s also a tireless advocate for the rights of the disabled and the youth. Stricken with polio when she was just 3 months old, Marlene has found freedom on the stage, captivating audiences with her pitch perfect voice. Marlene le Roux believes the arts are vital to uplifting the new generation of South Africans. Since joining Artscape as Director of Audience Development and Education in 2000, and acting as CEO since 2015, Marlene has made a significant difference to the lives of thousands of people through Arts and Culture who have visited the Artscape Theatre Centre. At the same time she has empowered and supported disadvantaged groups in finding fulfilling careers. Her outreach projects are legendary, taking complete productions to the rural areas and communities where education and workshops are included. After matriculating at Bergrivier Secondary School, Marlene graduated with degrees and diplomas at University of Cape Town, University of the Western Cape and University of Stellenbosch. Her dissertations included - Policy and Development, Education, Music, Management and Leadership. Recognised globally, Le Roux has been awarded by many countries for her significant projects where the arts have been used as a means for social cohesion and for promoting artists with disabilities. They include the Flemish Government for commitment to developing, affirming and advocating indigenous languages (2014), The Mkodaba Award from the National Department of Arts and Culture for making theatre accessible to all and for new works developed that contribute to nation building (2014), Deutschen Afrika Preis from the German Government for work done in disadvantaged and minority areas (2012), Received the Ordre National Du Merite from the French Government (2012), Mayor’s Medal - Category Cultural Affairs 2011, Chevalier des Ordres et des Lettres (French Knighthood in the Performing Arts) (2002), Desmond Tutu Legendary Award (2001) and Shoprite/Checkers Woman of the Year - Art Category (1998). In 2017, Marlene le Roux was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in Youth Development by the Western Cape Department of Social Development. She was recognised for her outstanding towards youth excellence and best practice in their fields.