In a move aimed at strengthening staff support across its retirement villages and care centres, the Rand Aid Association has appointed its first human resources (HR) manager – a newly created position focused on staff development, wellness and organisational alignment.
Having joined the organisation in January, Khanyi Seleka brings nearly two decades of experience in the field, including roles in the NGO healthcare sector. She says the opportunity to work within a care-focused environment aligned closely with her interest in community upliftment.
“I’ve worked for NGOs before, and being part of an organisation that gives back to the community made this role feel like a natural fit,” she says.
As the first person to hold the position, she will be responsible for consolidating HR policies, strengthening internal processes and ensuring staff across Rand Aid’s facilities are adequately supported in their roles.
One of her priorities has been the development of a comprehensive induction programme to ensure both new and existing employees are aligned with the organisation’s policies, values and employment conditions.
“It’s important to understand what each team needs,” she explained. “By working closely with managers, HR can partner with them to provide support that goes beyond standard services.”
In a care-based environment, she believes employee wellness is one of the most critical aspects of effective HR management.
“Staff are often working in emotionally demanding situations. We must provide access to wellness programmes, debriefing sessions and one-on-one counselling where needed. Supporting employees emotionally is just as important as supporting them physically.”
Her plans for staff development include strengthening performance management systems to help employees track their progress and grow within the organisation.
“When employees feel valued and listened to, they are more likely to give their best to residents. That ultimately leads to better care and service delivery.”
Before joining Rand Aid, she began her HR career in 2006 through an internship programme with Massmart and later worked as an HR officer at Makro Woodmead. In 2013, she transitioned into the NGO healthcare sector, spending six years with Right to Care as an HR generalist, followed by another six years as an HR manager at the Anova Health Institute.
She says her NGO experience provided valuable insight into the importance of caring for both employees and the communities they serve.
Her appointment also comes as Rand Aid continues to embed its relationship-focused culture through the HEARTS campaign, part of ‘The Rand Aid Way’ initiative launched in 2025.
The campaign aims to create vibrant, fulfilling environments across Rand Aid villages and care centres by prioritising strong relationships, supporting individual development and empowering residents to actively participate in their communities.
Internally, Khanyi says she hopes to contribute to this culture by fostering an environment where staff feel heard, supported and empowered in their work – ultimately enhancing the care experience for residents across the organisation’s facilities.
Outside of work, she lives in Roodepoort and is a mother of four children, balancing family life with her leadership responsibilities by making a conscious effort to be fully present at home after hours.
