Deonel was born and raised in Durbanville where she participated in a variety of sports including competitive swimming and netball. Health and fitness has always been a fundamental part of her life. She completed her degree in teaching at CPUT Wellington, specializing in foundation phase. She started teaching at a primary school in Paarl, while finishing her B. Ed Honours in Early Childhood Development and Remedial Studies. While working in Paarl she became one of the first members at CrossFit Paarl and fell in love with the variety of movements, community and their hard work mentality. She has competed in more than 10 CrossFit competitions, achieving 3 top 10 and 2 podium finishes. Deonel has always had a passion for learning new skills, working hard and helping others develop to their full potential. After teaching for 6 years she decided to get more involved as a coach. After coaching part time she knew this was her passion. And soon she became a permanent coach at Fitlife and feels right at home.