About us

Dr. Gina Rencken (Co-founder & Senior Occupational Therapist): Gina is a dedicated occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience helping children and families. She earned her Bachelor’s in Occupational Therapy from the University of Pretoria in 2001, a Master’s in Occupational Therapy from UFS, and is currently completing her PhD at UKZN. Gina has a special passion for paediatrics – she is a senior lecturer in paediatric OT at UKZN and has pursued advanced training in Ayres Sensory Integration and Neurodevelopmental Therapy (NDT). She is certified in administering the ADOS-2 for autism assessments and the Optima™ School Readiness Test, among other qualifications (including Functional Capacity Evaluation). As a member of the executive board of the South African Institute for Sensory Integration (SAISI) and the International Council of Educators in Sensory Integration (ICE-ASI), Gina stays at the forefront of OT research and best practices. On a personal note, Gina is a mom of a neurodivergent child herself – a journey that has taught her the importance of blending science, love, and fun. She approaches each family with empathy and insight, ensuring therapy is tailored to the child’s unique story. Gina’s warm demeanor and wealth of knowledge help parents feel at ease, knowing their child is in expert hands.

Dr. Pragashnie “Pre” Govender is a distinguished Occupational Therapist and Full Professor whose career spans more than two decades across clinical practice, academia, and research. As Co-Founder of Polkadot Sparrow Occupational Therapy, she leads with both heart and intellect — blending evidence-based practice with deep compassion and lived experience. Holding a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD in Occupational Therapy from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Dr. Govender currently serves as a Full Professor and Academic Leader of Research in the School of Health Sciences. She has published over a hundred peer-reviewed papers and several book chapters, earning recognition as a National Research Foundation-rated scientist and a multiple award-winning scholar. Her collaborations with the World Health Organisation and World Federation of Occupational Therapists reflect her global impact and commitment to inclusive, human-centred care. At Polkadot Sparrow, Dr. Govender channels her clinical expertise into supporting children, families, and adults to live meaningful, independent lives. Her scope is diverse — from early childhood intervention and paediatric therapy to adult rehabilitation, chronic pain management, and vocational assessments for return-to-work programs. She is certified in Functional Capacity Evaluation (WorkWell®), PGAP® for chronic pain rehabilitation, ADOS-2 for autism assessment, and Optima™ School Readiness testing, among others. Beyond her professional accolades, Dr. Govender’s work is deeply personal. As the mother of a neurodivergent child, she understands firsthand the challenges and triumphs families experience. This perspective infuses her approach with empathy, patience, and authenticity — ensuring every client feels seen, supported, and empowered. Her philosophy is simple yet profound: early detection and nurturing care can transform potential into possibility. She believes that every person, regardless of age or circumstance, deserves the opportunity to participate, connect, and thrive. Through her leadership, Dr. Govender continues to mentor young therapists, guide parents through their children’s developmental journeys, and advocate for inclusive, lifelong participation. At the heart of Polkadot Sparrow lies her unwavering vision — to create a space where science meets soul, and where meaningful occupation becomes the bridge between care and empowerment.