Lesley Cartwright – Family Ministry Director, CEO
Lesley Cartwright didn’t exactly “find” children’s and youth ministry… she sort of grew up in it. Starting at the age of 15, she has spent years investing in the lives of young people in roles ranging from youth leader to children’s ministry HOD, often somewhere between a youth night, a kids class, leading worship or a leadership meeting.
Along the way, she has served in school ministry, supported youth leadership at a senior level and helped plant an intergenerational home cell in a thriving local church. But it was after getting married and having children of her own that something shifted. What was once a passion became a calling.
Seeing faith take root within her own home gave Lesley a first-hand understanding of how powerful generational discipleship can be. Not just taught, but lived. Not just spoken, but modelled.
Lesley is a storyteller at heart and loves bringing the stories of the Bible to life in a way that helps children and young people see themselves in the story.
She has trained through Jackson’s Ridge Children’s Ministry Training Centre, The King’s University and is currently completing further modules with Kids in Ministry International. She is also the founder of the Youth Pastors Network, a Facebook-based platform that has grown organically into a space for connection, encouragement and shared learning among leaders.
Together with her husband Andrew and brother David, Lesley co-founded Rock the Planet Ministries to help bridge the gap between church and home, equipping both parents and leaders to disciple the next generation in everyday life.
In her role as Family Ministries Director and Pastor, Lesley carries a clear vision: to see faith woven into the rhythms of daily life, where children grow up not just knowing about God, but walking with Him.
She holds an Associate Degree in Biblical Studies and Marketplace Leadership, along with a range of certificates in biblical training.
Andrew Cartwright – Chief Operating Officer
Andrew Cartwright met the Lord in 1995 after walking into a service at Rhema Bible Church. That moment marked the beginning of a lifelong passion for sharing his faith with others, something he still does naturally with everyone he meets.
Andrew is a pastor-evangelist at heart, with a deep desire to see people encounter God and grow into all they are called to be. He carries a relational approach to ministry, connecting easily with people from all walks of life and helping them take meaningful steps in their faith journey.
He has served in children’s ministry alongside his wife Lesley, leading middle schoolers and bringing energy, humour and creativity into every environment. He was especially known for his character “Mr Polka Dot”, a firm favourite among the children, which reflected his ability to make faith both accessible and enjoyable.
Andrew came into his element during outreach moments, particularly when serving at an orphanage supported by their church. He has a natural ability to connect with children in group settings, creating spaces where they feel seen, valued and encouraged. His heart for people extends beyond structured ministry into everyday interactions, where he is intentional about sharing the message of Christ in a genuine and approachable way.
Alongside his ministry experience, Andrew studied Motion Picture Production at Tshwane University, which has shaped his creative perspective and communication style. He has also worked as a copy editor for a news television channel as well as within Christian literature, bringing clarity, accuracy and excellence to written communication.
Andrew has trained through Jackson’s Ridge Children’s Ministry Training Centre and holds an Associate Degree in Biblical Studies and Marketplace Leadership. His combined experience in ministry, media and leadership gives him a well-rounded approach to both communication and organisational development.
As Chief Operating Officer of Rock the Planet Ministries, Andrew plays a key role in shaping the operational strength of the organisation. He brings together vision and structure, helping to build sustainable systems that support the ministry’s mission to equip families and reach the next generation.
David McClure – Chief Financial Officer
David McClure gave his life to the Lord not long after his sister, Lesley, and has been part of church life and ministry ever since. From early on, he demonstrated both a willingness to serve and a natural ability to take responsibility in practical and behind-the-scenes roles.
He trained as a cell group leader and served as an assistant leader, helping to support and strengthen small group environments. David also volunteered in the media team, where he managed lighting and song words, contributing to creating an atmosphere that supported worship and engagement.
With a natural affinity for IT and accounting, David quickly found his footing in the world of finance and administration. After studying accounting at school, he stepped into bookkeeping early on and has since built extensive experience across a range of roles, including accounting officer, compliance manager and office manager.
David currently runs various businesses and consults with organisations, helping them establish strong financial systems, manage payroll and maintain accurate bookkeeping. His approach is both practical and solutions-focused, with a commitment to integrity and excellence in every detail.
Known for his approachable nature and steady leadership, David works well with people from all walks of life. He carries both the mindset of a leader and the heart of a team player, bringing stability and support wherever he is involved.
As Chief Financial Officer of Rock the Planet Ministries, David oversees the financial operations of the organisation, ensuring that resources are managed wisely and in alignment with the ministry’s vision. His role is vital in building a sustainable foundation that enables the ministry to grow and serve effectively.