Thirty-five years, countless roles, and an enduring commitment to Rand Aid – Ayanda Matthews has seen it all.
Now the association’s general manager of care and human resources, Ayanda was among 69 employees recognised for long service at Rand Aid’s awards ceremony on August 26.
Three employees received awards for 25 years of service, two for 20 years, five for 15 years, 38 for 10 years and 20 for five years.
But on a day celebrating long service, Ayanda was the queen.
“Ayanda has been at Rand Aid for almost as long as I’ve been working. Over the years, I’ve been lucky to work with some incredible people, and looking back, she is easily one of the very best,” said CEO Gert Coetzee.
“It’s rare to meet someone who can think so clearly and objectively. Ayanda has a natural talent for breaking down any problem – whether it’s HR, operational or strategic – and coming up with sharp, thoughtful solutions. You ignore her perspective at your own peril.”
Rapid promotions
Ayanda joined Rand Aid in October 1991 as a professional nurse at the Wedge Gardens Treatment Centre. Her exceptional work ethic saw her rise through the ranks. Within two years, she was appointed assistant matron across Wedge Gardens and Ken Corder, before advancing to matron less than a year later.
By December 2002, she took over full management of both facilities. Her leadership capabilities quickly opened new doors, and in April 2004, she transitioned to head office as training and compliance manager.
Further promotions followed in quick succession: Deputy general manager of compliance and social react in 2006, and general manager in 2008 – a role that placed her at the helm of Tarentaal, Thembalami, Wedge Gardens, and the entire HR function. To strengthen her portfolio, Ayanda undertook formal studies in labour law, firmly embedding herself as an expert in human resources (HR) and industrial relations.
In November 2024, Rand Aid’s executive committee members were given new titles and areas of responsibility. Ayanda became responsible for the care facilities (Ron Smith and Thembalami care centres and Wedge Gardens substance abuse treatment centre) and all HR-related matters.
“Her drive is extraordinary,” said fellow exco member Amanda Diener. “When we insourced all contracted staff between 2015 and 2017, her HR workload effectively doubled overnight. Ayanda didn’t hesitate for a second. How she managed it all, only she knows!
“What I find most touching is where her journey began. Ayanda started her calling as a midwife, bringing new life into the world. Here at Rand Aid, she guides others to care for people through every stage of life, from those fighting addiction to residents in end-of-life care. It is a truly extraordinary spectrum of compassion.”
25-year awards
Three people were recognised for 25 years of service.
Tanya Switala is a familiar face in Elphin Lodge retirement village and the Ron Smith Care Centre’s front office, where she assists residents and visitors with a smile. She also helps the village’s entertainment committee advertise its functions. Tanya started at Rand Aid during the construction phase of Thornhill Manor, from a prefabricated site office where hard hats were mandatory. Since then, she has worked as the personal assistant to two CEOs – Leon Ghavalas and Rae Brown, as well as at Inyoni Creek and Tarentaal Village.
Joyce Mabule’s Rand Aid journey began in 1996 as a domestic reliever at Ron Smith Care Centre, just after democracy dawned. She became a permanent staff member in 2001 and has since proved herself a true all-rounder – mastering administration, bookkeeping, HR policies and time and attendance. Always eager to learn, Joyce has taken on every challenge with determination and reliability. Known affectionately as ‘Tsibinki’ in HR, she knows staff across Rand Aid and is someone colleagues can count on. Today, she heads the Workplace Forums, helping give staff a stronger voice.
Some people choose nursing as a career. Others are simply born to care. Laurentia Jooste is one of those special people. After beginning her nursing career in 1979 and gaining experience across the country, Laurentia found her way back to what she loved most – caring for older people. For 25 years at Ron Smith Care Centre, she has been part of a second family, caring for residents in advanced dementia with compassion and love. Laurentia knows her residents’ personalities and preferences, and understands that sometimes a gentle touch or familiar voice says more than words.
20- and 15-year awards
Winnie Mapekula, the receptionist at head office, and Rebecca Nkabi, SANCA Wedge Gardens’ cashier, were awarded for 20 years of service.
Awards for 15 years of service went to Hlumela Anderson, the deputy manager of Elphin Lodge retirement village; David Rasidumelo, who is part of the maintenance team at Ron Smith and Elphin Lodge; security guards Robert Mkawane (head office and SANCA Wedge Gardens) and Queen Mdewuka (Thembalami); and Thornhill Manor driver and grounds and maintenance assistant Arthur Mlangeni.
