Verona is an expert in nutrition, public health, and program leadership with over 15 years of experience ranging from clinical dietetics to national policy and implementation. Most recently, she served as the Director of the National School Nutrition Program at the Department of Education, where she led efforts to provide nutritious meals to 1.5 million learners daily. Verona has held key roles in nutrition management across the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Eastern Cape, including with the South African National Defense Force — where she served as a military dietitian supporting troop readiness and family wellness.