Built by a former au pair, driven by a passion for meaningful connections.
Hi, I’m Sondy Mzamo, founder of Called to Care International.
My journey in childcare didn’t begin with a job title—it began with a genuine love for caring for children and supporting young people. Born and raised in South Africa, I moved to the United States for the first time at 19 years old as an au pair. Like many young people embarking on this journey, I experienced the excitement, uncertainty, growth, and challenges that come with building a life far from home while adapting to a new culture.
Over the years, that passion has taken me across multiple countries and roles. I worked as an au pair in both South Africa, United States and Europe, gaining firsthand experience in supporting children and families across different cultures. I later served as a Youth Activities Counselor with Disney Cruise Line, creating engaging and meaningful experiences for children from around the world. My professional journey continued in education, where I taught in Montessori and early childhood programs in both South Africa and the United States. While completing my studies in Early Childhood Development, I taught at Generation Schools in Cape Town, deepening a passion that has guided my work with children and families throughout my career. I later continued my educational journey at the Montessori School of Manhattan in New York, gaining valuable experience in child-centered learning and development before stepping into school leadership as an Assistant Principal in Johannesburg.
Throughout these experiences, I have had the privilege of supporting children at different stages of development, partnering with families, mentoring young people, and helping create environments where children feel safe, valued, and empowered to thrive.
But one of the most transformative parts of my journey was being an au pair myself.
I understand the excitement, uncertainty, growth, and vulnerability that comes with leaving home to pursue this experience. I know what it feels like to navigate applications, interviews, visa appointments, preparation, cultural adjustment, and the emotional realities of living abroad.
That firsthand experience is what led me to create Called to Care International.
More than an agency—guidance from someone who’s been there.
Former Au Pair • Educator • School Leader • International Childcare Consultant
Why Work With Called to Care International?
When I left South Africa to become an au pair, I had no idea how much the experience would shape my life. It challenged me, helped me grow, and ultimately led me to discover a deeper sense of purpose.
Today, I am passionate about helping aspiring South African au pairs pursue the same opportunity. Applying to become an au pair is more than completing paperwork—it’s preparing for a life-changing journey. That’s why I partner with AuPair International, a trusted agency that provides the program structure, resources, and visa sponsorship support needed throughout the au pair journey.
As a South African representative partnered with AuPair International, I provide personalized guidance and support throughout the application, preparation, and onboarding process. Having been an au pair myself, I understand the excitement, questions, and challenges that come with taking this step.
Together, we help aspiring au pairs navigate each stage of the process with confidence. While AuPair International provides the agency support, I offer local guidance, encouragement, and firsthand insight from someone who understands what it means to leave home, adapt to a new culture, and build a life-changing experience abroad.
You don’t have to navigate the process alone.
My heart is to help aspiring au pairs feel informed, supported, and confident as they begin their journey—with honesty, guidance, and genuine care every step of the way.
If you feel called to care, to grow, and to explore the world, you’re in the right place