Ross Jerrier becomes Field Band Foundation CEO

Ushama Ross Jerrier, the acting CEO of the Field Band Foundation (FBF) since November 2024, has been appointed the CEO.

As the acting CEO, Ross Jerrier led the FBF with integrity, strategic foresight and commitment to its mission of empowering young South Africans through musicking, which is the act of making and experiencing music together.

Ross Jerrier has worked closely with Kempton Park schools, including the Con Amore School for children with special needs, and Hoërskool Birchleigh.

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On September 11, the Con Amore School field band, under her guidance, made history by opening the prestigious Valuable 500 Africa Summit.

“I have always had a deep desire to help children feel joy, happiness, and enthusiasm. As life evolves, children are often robbed of these simple joys. My focus has always been on human happiness, making a difference, creating music and helping young people feel joy.

“Thirteen years later, I am leading the very organisation that brings this vision to life,” Ross Jerrier said.

In August 2024, the FBF gave students from Hoërskool Birchleigh, including former learner Mbalenhle Heita and current learner Karabo Mangoale, the chance to attend musical lessons in Norway through the Chords of Community programme. This initiative rewarded their dedication and commitment to music.

Earlier this year, the foundation and Con Amore School hosted the Chords of Community event, celebrating a three-year partnership.

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The event brought together the Norwegian Academy of Music, the University of the Witwatersrand, the FBF and the Norwegian Band Federation.

The programme focuses on uplifting higher music education in SA and Norway, fostering inclusion, diversity and intercultural understanding.

Ross Jerrier said she particularly enjoys initiatives such as the National Championships and international exchange opportunities for young field band members.

“There is nothing more rewarding than witnessing the gleam of excitement in 2 500 children as they line up at the Wanderers Stadium to perform against their peers. The confidence and self-esteem they gain are indescribable,” she said.

“Moments of pride and joy are multiplied when children are chosen to participate in week-long youth seminars in Norway, or when children living with disabilities play music alongside others – no labels, no distinctions, no barriers, just notes of joy in togetherness,” she added.

“That’s musicking. It is every child’s right to feel joyful.”

Ross Jerrier joined the foundation in 2012 as its national operations manager. 2025 marks her 13th year as part of the FBF.