Afritrex - The Team
Ben Southall
Ben Southall was born on the 6th March 1975 growing up in a house that was falling down. By the age of three and a half, Ben had had enough. Taking matters into his own hands, and surveying the damage, the first plans were laid. Detailed measurements were taken, calculations made, and, with a great deal of effort (and a couple of years schooling missed) he finally finished the last of countless DIY projects earnestly started, (but never finished) by Ben Snr.
The book in front of him, the blackboard, even the teacher were all bridesmaids by design as far as Ben was concerned, while outside he worked out how sandcastles could be stronger or how gnomes could be propelled over houses using only a broom, a deck chair, and the cat as counter-weight. Zebras and stripes, or is it Leopards and spots, suffice to say today we’re not a million miles away from those early untidy days, but now Ben brings his impressive focus to bear on building the home, workshop and transport system called “the colonel”, the Landrover, while picking up and reassembling the pieces of Owen’s DIY projects.
Blessed with a strategic mind and a boundless energy, sport ensured Ben built the qualities needed to become a true sportsman (Grrr!) and strong leader (note to future employers!) and yet still he manages to party harder than Paris Hilton on slimming pills. Kingston university was supposed to put a stop to this, but at least gave him degree in automotive engineering. After working in charity for a number of years, he now acts as operations manager for an agricultural company. He brings quite a skill-set to the journey with his logistical, organisational and mechanical skills, and an energy which is essential for driving this project forward. He is prepared for the job ahead, having already had the chance to acclimatise and train while commuting between the UK and South Africa over a number of years.
.gif)
