1. Jo, what does Women’s Month mean to you, both personally and in the context of the work you do at The Baby Home?
For me, Women’s Month is a reminder that we all have the power to make a difference. It doesn’t have to be through grand gestures; often it’s the smallest acts of kindness that have the biggest impact. Too often, women are told to take a back seat, yet it is our natural compassion and strength that can transform lives. Women’s Month reminds me that each of us, in our own way, can play a meaningful role in society.
2. You wear so many hats, mom, crisis caregiver, and educator. Which part of your identity as a woman has evolved the most through this journey?
I’ve grown most in my role as a crisis mom to so many little ones over the years. I’ve learned patience, resilience, and discovered a strength I never knew I had. Most importantly, I’ve realized that the heart has no limits; you can love and care for far more people than you ever imagined possible.
3. What inspired you to open your heart and home to children in crisis, and how has that decision shaped the woman you are today?
Our journey began with the adoption of our son, Emmanuel. It wasn’t an easy road, but it opened my eyes to the realities so many children face and lit a fire in me to advocate for them. Through adoption, I discovered my voice as a champion for children’s rights. That experience has shaped me into a woman who is determined to fight for the voiceless, to stand firm when challenges come, and to live with an open heart.
4. How do you find strength on the hard days, the ones filled with emotional goodbyes, sleepless nights, or heavy stories?
The Baby Home itself is my strength. Even on the toughest days, there’s nothing better than kicking off my shoes, sitting on the floor, and being surrounded by the little ones. Their joy and unconditional love are contagious. It’s impossible to stay heavy-hearted when you’re wrapped in that kind of pure love.
5. Can you share a moment in your journey when you truly felt the power of being a woman in this space?
There are so many moments, but the most powerful are when I witness transformation—a child arriving from heartbreaking circumstances, healing, thriving, and then receiving the gift of a family. To know that I’ve been part of a journey that forever changes a life, that’s the power of being a woman in this space.
6. What role has community, especially women, played in supporting you through this journey?
Community is everything. We simply couldn’t do what we do without our tribe of incredible women. From cuddling babies and sitting through hospital visits to organizing fundraisers or being a listening ear when things get tough, their support keeps us going. Our team of carers, some of the most compassionate and courageous women I know, is the heartbeat of The Baby Home. We wouldn’t survive without them
7. As a mom to both biological and foster children, what lessons have you learned about unconditional love and emotional resilience?
Love comes naturally; you don’t have to force it or overthink it. There really is such a thing as love at first sight, and the beautiful part is that it only deepens with time. Every child I’ve cared for has taught me that love multiplies; it never runs out.
8. How do you prioritize your own mental and emotional well-being amidst constant caregiving?
Truthfully, it’s something I’m still learning. I don’t always remember to put myself first. But the joy and love I receive from the children is often enough to fill me up and remind me why I do this. Still, I know caring for myself is an area I need to give more attention to.
9. What do you hope the little girls in your care grow up believing about themselves and their place in the world?
I want them to know they don’t have to be the best, they just need to be the best version of themselves. Each child has unique gifts and talents, and comparison only robs you of joy. Be authentically you, and people will love you for exactly who you are.
10. Who are the women, past or present, who have inspired your strength, compassion, or leadership?
My mom is one of my biggest inspirations. She was a single parent raising three strong-willed girls, and she taught us to stand tall, be independent, and fight for what’s right even if it’s unpopular. That example of quiet strength has shaped the way I lead and love today.
I also find so much inspiration in my two daughters. Watching them work with children, showing such love, dedication, and passion, reassures me that we’ve done something right. They are already making an impact, and I know they’re going to be game changers in this world.
Another woman who inspires me daily is Thuli Madonsela. She is a patron for The Baby Home, and her warmth, wisdom, and love continue to guide and uplift me in everything we do.
11. What advice would you offer to other women who feel called to make a difference but are unsure where to begin?
Start small. We live by the words of Mother Teresa: “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” You don’t need to change the whole world, just start where you are, do what you can, and let love guide you. The rest will follow.
12. This Women’s Month, what message would you most like to share with women everywhere who are quietly doing brave, life-changing work behind the scenes?
To every woman working quietly and faithfully behind the scenes, you are seen, you are valued, and what you do matters deeply. You don’t need applause to know the worth of your contribution. The world is changed in countless ways by women like you, whose acts of love and courage ripple far beyond what you can see.
Short Bio:
Jo Teunissen is the co-founder and driving force behind The Baby Home, Durban North, a fully registered Place of Safety for abandoned or orphaned babies and children up to age 4, including those with special needs. She established the Home alongside her partner, Bjorn Teunissen, around 2015–2016.
Their mission is deeply rooted in love and caregiving, inspired by the motto tattooed on Jo’s arm: “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” This ethos guides the care provided at the Home. The Home offers nurturing, individualized care to babies until a permanent solution, such as adoption, is found.
