About Robert
Henry Robert Howes is a published author, master coach & master counsellor, researcher and lifelong student of human development.
His work sits at the intersection of psychology, personal growth, philosophy, history and lived experience. Whether exploring the mysteries of the human psyche, examining the developmental stages of life, or restoring a classic motorcycle from the ground up, Robert is driven by a simple question:
How do things work, and how can they work better?
Born in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal, and raised in Edenvale, Robert spent much of his professional life in Gauteng, building a successful corporate career spanning leadership, logistics, business, coaching and advisory roles across South Africa and internationally. In his early years Robert worked in a bakery and was a policeman.
Yet his greatest passion has always been understanding people.
Throughout a lifelong journey of study and exploration, Robert immersed himself in fields as diverse as the history of religion, ancient pre-history, psychology, coaching, family systems, philosophy, human development and personal transformation. He qualified as an International Master Coach and Master Counsellor, studying under the late Dr. S. Skiffington, while also training in diverse disciplines including NLP and Family Constellations.
At the age of forty-five, Robert stepped away from corporate life and embarked upon a year-long sabbatical of travel, reflection and research. It was a defining chapter that deepened his understanding of growth, change and the human condition, laying the foundation for much of his future work.
His debut published book, SEVENS: An Exploration of Human Psychological Development and Growth, presents a compelling framework for understanding the seven-year cycles that shape our lives. Drawing upon decades of research and observation, the book explores how individuals evolve through predictable developmental stages and what can happen when those transitions are resisted or ignored.
Beyond SEVENS, Robert has produced numerous academic theses, research papers, essays and articles covering subjects ranging from adolescent psychology and human development to history, motorcycles and the deeper questions that shape our lives.
His forthcoming work addressing teenage suicide is perhaps his most important project to date — a heartfelt effort to better understand one of society’s most pressing challenges and contribute meaningfully to the conversation around hope, resilience and healing.
Away from the written word, Robert remains an avid motorcycle enthusiast and respected authority on classic Yamaha two-stroke motorcycles of the 1960s and 1970s. Having owned, restored and researched more than one hundred motorcycles, he combines the curiosity of a researcher with the patience of a craftsman.
Today, from his home in the beautiful KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, Robert continues to research, write, coach and speak on topics relating to human development, personal transformation and lifelong learning.
His mission is simple:
To help people better understand themselves, navigate life’s transitions, and realise their full potential.
Areas of Focus
Passions & Expertise
Robert's work is shaped by a diverse set of interests and a deep commitment to understanding and improving the human experience.
Youth Advocacy
Passionately dedicated to supporting young people, with a forthcoming book addressing the crisis of teenage suicide. Robert achieved his Springbok Scout award at 17, and went on to become a Scoutmaster. He spent 20 years with the 1st Edenvale Scout Troop.
Psychology & Human Development
A lifelong student of the human mind, Robert explores how we grow, change, and evolve through the cycles of life.
Writing & Research
From academic theses to published books, Robert distils complex ideas into accessible, transformative works.