MEET YOUR MENTOR
Mark Bruins
Founder | Business Analyst | Project Manager | Mentor | Knowledge Broker | Environment Warrior | Father to Jess and Gordon.
Mark Bruins brings over 43+ years of international experience in the I.T. industry, having held 25 roles, including 15 as a contractor, and 8 based in the United Kingdom. In recent years, he has specialised as a Senior Business Analyst, though he also holds certifications as a Project Manager and Microsoft MCSA.
Since 1990 Mark has been actively involved in teaching, and by 2006 he was authoring curriculum for a wide range of subjects including computer networking, software, environmental studies, business skills, web design, and now business analysis. His courses have reached learners across the globe, combining technical depth with practical insight.
In April 2019 Mark reignited his passion for knowledge sharing by certifying in the Knowledge Broker Blueprint, mastering the art of creating and delivering high-impact Masterminds. With a unique ability to connect, influence, and lead, he successfully assembled a network of professionals to co-create and market our flagship income elevator blueprint - The Gold Mentoring Program.
- Mark’s proven track record includes mentoring hundreds of Business Analysts who have gone on to double their income, secure remote roles, and overcome imposter syndrome. His personalised career strategy, practical tools, and unwavering commitment to results have earned him a reputation for trustworthiness and transformation.
- With decades of experience, certifications, and a career that spans continents and sectors, Mark speaks from lived expertise. He doesn’t just teach - he delivers proven systems, real-world tactics, and insider insights that accelerate careers in Business Analysis.
- Mark’s ongoing contribution to the global Business Analysis community is reflected through his active involvement with the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). He attended the 2019 IIBA Summit, presented at the 2020 IIBA Summit on The Power of a Mastermind, served as a 2023 IIBA Summit Track Chair leading seven speakers, and returned as a speaker at the 2025 IIBA Summit with Connection with Purpose: How Meaningful Partnerships Build Resilient Business Analysts. In 2026, he presented the workshop The BA Career Accelerator: A Proven Blueprint to Double Your Value in 90 Days at BA & Beyond and was also a virtual speaker at BA Life 2026, delivering Showcasing Your Value as a Business Analyst: Turning Skills into Career Opportunity.
- Opportunities don’t wait. Whether you're seeking a career breakthrough, a contracting edge, or a mentor to guide your next big leap, Mark’s mentoring programmes offer the structure, support, and speed to help you succeed - often in 90 days or less. There’s never been a better time to invest in your future.
Meet the Team
Petro Scharnick
Managing Director
Petro joined BA Masterminds in December 2021 and has played a pivotal role in shaping and scaling our operations. With a background in digital strategy, project coordination, and creative design, Petro brings a dynamic mix of structure and innovation to the team. Her leadership and deep understanding of our audience have earned her a recent promotion to Managing Director.
Petro oversees day-to-day operations, product development, marketing, and strategic partnerships, all while ensuring the voice and vision of BA Masterminds stay consistent and impactful. Her sharp eye for design, unmatched attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to excellence are a driving force behind our continued success.
Marcus Udokang
Regional Director
(Canada)
Marcus plays a pivotal role in mentoring Business Analysts, supporting them in developing real-world skills, strengthening their positioning, and accelerating their career progression. His structured approach, combined with his ability to simplify complex concepts, ensures that masterminds gain clarity, confidence, and direction.
As Regional Director for Canada, Marcus is instrumental in expanding the BA Masterminds footprint, building relationships, and supporting Business Analysts in achieving measurable career growth.
Oupa Laka
Regional Director
(South Africa)
Oupa joined BA Masterminds as an experienced Business Analyst with a passion for mentoring and developing others. With a solid foundation in business analysis and hands-on industry experience, Oupa brings a practical, no-nonsense approach to supporting aspiring and experienced Business Analysts alike.
His commitment to excellence, reliability, and continuous improvement makes him a valued member of the BA Masterminds mentoring team as Regional Director of South Africa, contributing to the success and progression of our growing global community.
