We empower and fortify the minds and hearts of young people nationwide
The Fortified Mission
At Fortified our heart is to partner alongside parents and schools to help equip, empower and fortify the minds and hearts of young people nationwide. It’s like what Max Lucado says in his book Anxious for nothing, “The presence of anxiety is unavoidable, but the prison of anxiety is optional. Guard your heart and mind by saturating yourself in the truth of God’s Word. When fears and doubts come, counter them with the promises of God. Peace is promised to those who fix their thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable.”
We believe transformation, redemption and reconciliation are available to all who seek diligently. Our prayer for you is to believe once again in hope and restoration. Our programs are specifically designed for Gen Z and parents that are currently battling with issues with their children’s mental health.
Partner with us today!
Origins of Fortified Coaches
FORTIFIED COACHES was birthed in 2021 and officially started operations in 2024. The dream was placed in our hearts at the tender age of 21. It was simple. Imagine a world in which young men and women were equipped with basic emotional and spiritual fundamentals that not only allowed them to persevere through life’s most difficult challenges but also grew up to be responsible and relatable leaders, parents and business owners in a society that has almost completely done away with objective truth and moral guidelines. We live in an age where “everything goes.” The new digital world has left devastating effects on children all around the globe and parents have no clue or knowledge on how to effectively connect with their teens as they navigate the meaning of life and begin to question certain themes.
Loneliness, abandonment, confusion of identity and anxiety are now the most prominent cases worldwide. A large part of it has to do with perpetual cycles of family dysfunction and/or tragedy & another large part of it has to do with the sheer pace at which our world has changed in the last few decades and parents are simply unable to keep up with the rates of social media and technological advancements.
Meet The Team
Ross Marshall
Founder & Director
My journey began in Pretoria, South Africa, where I was born into a family grounded in honour, wisdom, and discipline, guided by a strong biblical foundation. My parents’ sacrifices and values shaped my path, instilling in me a deep sense of purpose and integrity.
In high school, I excelled in sports and academics but faced the usual teenage temptations. Despite some missteps, I ultimately embraced a purpose led life. After a year at the University of Pretoria pursuing professional football, I pivoted to the arts in 2020, a move I believe was divinely inspired. I studied at PNX Global, a performing arts college and ministry, where I discovered my calling: to inspire, influence, and impact young people through arts, culture, and entertainment, pointing them to redemption, reconciliation and salvation.
My journey has taken me from social media content creation to reality TV on “Love Island SA,” and to rubbing shoulders with South Africa’s leading hip hop artists. I’ve appeared in international commercials, performed in numerous theatrical productions, and starred in my first international TV series, “House of David” (2024).
For over a year, I’ve been a youth coach at Parel Vallei High School and Curro Somerset West, finding fulfilment in mentoring young men and women. My mission is to prevent young people from making major life-damaging decisions by being a role model and friend to the next generation. Together, we can conquer challenges and step boldly into a bright future.
I’m excited to work with you on this journey of discovery and transformation. With faith, every small step towards your well-being makes a world of difference.
De Wet Krige
Life Coach, NLP Practioner
Nutritionist
I’m 22 years old and grew up in Alberton, Gauteng, just outside Johannesburg, South Africa. I come from a loving family with two brothers, my mom, and my dad. My parents are my heroes—my dad is a wise, empathetic leader, and my mom is the ultimate giver. Early influences include David from the Bible and Nelson Mandela. I went to Helpmekaar College in Johannesburg. Though I performed well, I struggled with self-doubt and didn’t feel connected to any subjects. After school, I took a gap year at Pnx, focusing on ministry, self-development, and adventures like skydiving and bungee jumping. My first job was as a jiu-jitsu instructor for kids. I then joined my brother in digital marketing and for a short period studied Human Resource Management at Stellenbosch but later decided that it was not my passion.
Despite these steps, I still felt lost. After battling fears, addiction, depression, and heartbreak, I dove into my inner thoughts and self and realized my purpose: to serve and empower others which led me down the road I am today. I am a certified and Accredited Life Coach and NLP practitioner. This coupled with my time in ministry has helped me develop the practical and theoretical skills of mentoring and connecting with individuals from all walks of life.
My core values are love, integrity, honesty, and truth. I believe relationships are key to a happy and successful life and strive to nurture every relationship.. My guiding philosophies include Philippians 2:1-8, Mark 12:30-31, and my dad’s advice: “It is the private victories that matter most in life.” Three things drive me daily: self-improvement, improving others’ lives, and honoring Jesus Christ. My vision is to change lives, whether through coaching, mentorship personal training and nutrition or my other business pursuits. My goal with each individual I train to not only help them be the best of themselves but helping them understand the inner workings of there mind. I am convinced that together we can achieve your potential. Lets make it happen !