Meet Jennifer, Pramilla, Rene and Nina, the team behind our 200-hour yoga teacher training course. United by a deep love for Yoga & Ayurveda, they envisioned an empowered Yoga Teacher Training approach. Their strong passion to pass on wisdom led to founding the Academy of Yoga and Ayurveda (AYA) YTT in 2014. They carry forward the teachings of their inspiring Yoga Trainers, Mother Yogeshwari and Swami Parvatiananda from Ananda Kutir Ashram.
Meet your instructors
Jennifer Stephens
Originally from England, Jennifer made Cape Town her home in 1990. Her yoga journey began at Ananda Kutir Ashram in 1995, offering respite from her corporate career. She immersed herself in Integral Hatha Yoga studies at Ananda Kutir, completing the Yoga Teacher Training Course in 1999.
Guided by Sri Yogeshwari Mataji and Swami Parvathiananda, she became a Yoga Therapist and Ayurveda Practitioner in 2003, certified by the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT). Leaving corporate life in 2007, Jennifer pursued her yoga passion, teaching various classes including Pre & Post Natal, Baby, and Children’s Yoga. She excels in training yoga teachers and leads workshops and retreats, using Yoga Therapy to promote recovery and well-being in adults and children.
In 2011, she established Shambhavi, an Ayurveda products company supporting her community outreach work with children, educators, and informal settlement residents. Currently collaborating with three organisations, Jennifer is dedicated to spreading the benefits of yoga.
Pramilla Vassen
An Integral Hatha Yoga Teacher, Ayurveda Practitioner and Therapist, Pramilla trained at Ananda Kutir Ashram. A pioneering force in South Africa, she advocates for yoga and elevates Ayurveda’s recognition. With a decade on the Allied Health Practitioners Council of SA, Pramilla embodies ancient yoga’s sanctity while infusing it creatively into her philosophy.
She leads the AOL Happiness Program and Sahaj Samadhi Meditation for the Art of Living Foundation, operating in 180+ countries. She guides the Yoga Protocol on International Yoga Day, June 21st, under the Consul General of India.
From corporate to education realms, Pramilla extends stress-relief, breathing, yoga and meditation programs. Her contributions span magazines, radio, TV and international documentaries.
At Chandi Yoga & Wellness in Claremont, her peaceful haven offers group classes, private therapy, Ayurveda, wellness initiatives and nurturing day retreats. Engaging Vegetarian Cooking Classes complement holistic lifestyles.
Nina Saacks
Nina’s Yoga journey started in 2001, during her Business Science studies at UCT, attending hatha Yoga sessions led by her first teacher, Joke Spijiker.
Her deep connection with Yoga grew, leading her to the Ananda Kutir Ashram’s Yoga Teacher Training Course in 2003. Even as one of the youngest participants, she recognized her calling to share the timeless wisdom of this tradition.
Nina’s commitment led her to various Yoga ventures, all focused on making healthy living accessible to all. She advocates simplifying life for improved health, achieved through right choices and supportive communities. She believes Yoga Teacher Training is a gateway to personal transformation, enhanced by Ayurveda’s often overlooked practices, nurturing lasting lifestyle shifts.
Interested in learning more?
Find out more about the course by booking a 1 on 1 conversation with Nina where you can discover if this is the right path for you. Consultations are completely free, just book a slot using the calendar below.