For 11 680 days, Stella Dibotelo has been an employee of Rand Aid Association.
She started working for the Lyndhurst-based non-profit organisation 32 years ago, as part of the housekeeping team. Over the years, Stella has worked at various properties, including at the head office for eight years. Her last 23 years of service were spent at Elphin Lodge Retirement Village.
She will be hanging up her apron for the last time on December 29, but with many people going away for the holidays, it was decided to hold her farewell party on December 1.
Residents from the village entertainment committee and staff gathered to bid her a fond farewell and thank her for her years of dedication. Kathy Theron, chairperson of the committee, thanked Stella for her hard work and support at the numerous village functions that take place day in and day out.
“We wish Stella a well-deserved retirement,” says village manager Helen Petrie.
“Stella was a familiar face at village functions, where she expertly took care of table settings, tea service, and clean-up duty. She was a hard worker and was always complimented on a job well done!”
“My years at Elphin Lodge have been good ones – the parties and events have all been fun. It’s a busy environment and I’ve learnt a lot about our elders over the years. I appreciate the chance I was given. Elphin Lodge is my home and my book of happiness is full,” said Stella when she received her 30-year long service award in 2020.
Stella with her nephew, grandchildren and village manager Helen Petrie: Jessica Rathogwa, Stella, Johannes Mogale, Tebogo Mogale, Realeboga Molwantwa, and Helen.
