Rand Aid Association brought its staff together in celebration on December 10, hosting a heartwarming year-end function in the Tarentaal hall.
All staff were invited, with 165 attending in person and 146 takeaway meals delivered to day and night shift staff at Rand Aid’s retirement villages, care centres and substance disorder treatment centre.
The event, organised by head office’s Erica Woodward, featured beautifully decorated tables and a festive menu including three types of meat – wors, brisket, and chicken – served with pap, gravy, coleslaw and a sweet ending of ice cream with chocolate sauce.
Ayanda Matthews, GM of human resources and care, addressed the staff with heartfelt appreciation. “I want to take a moment to acknowledge your dedication and hard work, which does not go unnoticed – though it might seem to you that management does not see it,” she said. “You are the pillars of Rand Aid’s success. We value your contribution to the organisation’s achievements.”
Ayanda highlighted several milestones and achievements from the past year:
- Upgrades to offices at Tarentaal and installation of water tanks at Inyoni Creek, Tarentaal and Thornhill Manor
- An increased number of subsidised beds at Wedge Gardens
- Staff and resident participation in Busamed’s Health Walk from Tarentaal to the Ron Smith Lapa
- Training of 24 staff members as Eden Associates to further the Rand Aid Way of living and working
She also congratulated staff who were promoted, welcomed new team members and recognised individuals who received praise from residents, visitors and colleagues for exceptional service.
Several staff members were singled out for embodying the Rand Aid Way:
- Sifiso Buthelezi repaired a burst geyser at Elphin during one of his first standby duties, earning heartfelt thanks from a resident
- Simon Makhubele, a security guard at head office, assisted a visitor who had misplaced their driver’s licence with patience and kindness
- Robert Mapheto cleared a sewer blockage at Inyoni single-handedly, ensuring a safe and clean environment while maintaining a friendly attitude
- Grounds staff at Tarentaal B Block filled a hazardous hole left by City Power, keeping the area safe for pedestrians and drivers
- Oliphant Kekana was praised for repairing and recementing the coping tiles on a roof and assisting with paving work, noted for his thoroughness and pride in his work
- Timothy Mapheto and Sifiso Buthelezi guided staff during recent power outages, ensuring smooth generator and inverter operations
“These examples reflect the Rand Aid Way,” Ayanda said. “There are many more, and we encourage residents and colleagues to report acts of exceptional care and service.”
The year was not without sadness. Ayanda offered condolences to staff who lost loved ones and paid tribute to colleagues who passed away, including Caroline Mfeka and Avril Maltman of Ron Smith, and Maria Matlou of Thembalami.
The year-end function was a fitting celebration of dedication, resilience, and care – a reminder that the contributions of Rand Aid’s staff are seen, appreciated and integral to the organisation’s success.
Thuli Dlamini (Wedge Gardens) and Hlumela Anderson (Elphin Lodge).
Thuli Dlamini and Rebecca Nkabi (Wedge Gardens), with Hlumela Anderson (Elphin Lodge).
Hlumela Anderson (Elphin Lodge), Melissa Botha (HO) and Thuli Dlamini (Wedge Gardens).
Ayanda Matthews, GM of human resources and care.
Rebone Maleka, general assistant supervisor, Thornhill Manor.
Thembalami Care Centre’s Lizzy Ratema.
Ntswaki Radebe from Thembalami Care Centre at the year-end function.
Joyce Ndou (Thembalami) and Marlene Thape (Inyoni Creek).
Esther Malema (Max Ordamn Deaf Association) and Portia Kgare and Sarina Mpyana (both from Inyoni Creek).
Nkhensani Shibiti from Ron Smith Care Centre.
Amanda Ndlovu, Nomsa Shabangu and Nandipha Ngesi (all from Ron Smith Care Centre), with Nikiwe Thengwayo (Thornhill Manor).
