How Public Works observed three commemorative days in one (isiZulu)
Story and pictures by Vusi Shabalala
Above: Mrs. Andaleeb Khan on a keynote address
A day to remember as Public Works observed three commemorative days in one session. On Tuesday
the 3rd of December 2019, management, staff and guests converged in the Auditorium at its Head
Office, Pietermaritzburg to celebrate with the nation, the International World Aids Day, Disability Day
and 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children.
The programme outline was well managed by two staunch and prolific Programme Directors - Nandipha
Mathonsi and Zamachunu Ndebele who guided the event so evenly from start to end. The spirituality
and devotion to the session was showered by an opening prayer from Pretty Buthelezi. Ms Andaleeb
Khan – the Director for Legal Services graced the event on behalf of the Head of Department, Dr Gaster
Gilbert Sharpley, who was absent due to other official commitments. Andaleeb’s address was truthful,
uncut, uncensored but real. Wish you were there to listen to her voice and address. In her story one
could detect that there is are public misinterpretations on illness perceptions and treatment beliefs,
especially self-reported health problem versus medication adherence. The rationale is that one has to
be strong to believing in what you are in life. Remember, this is your life and you only live once.
Lindiwe Mtolo, the department’s Deputy Director for Employee Health and Wellness, delivered an
extraordinary message that would need one to begin pondering if is it indeed necessary to shy away
from attending such serious events in the near future. Gatherings of this nature mostly remain a catalyst
for personal change.
Speakers of the day were in good command. Sherilee Matthews – offered a smoothing poem that would
drive one to the heaven’s staircases. You must be very strong and bold at heart to listening to her poem.
Anele Mkila – was the only lucky man amongst a bevy of beauties to deliver a speech. He and Bulelwa
Mbolekwa delivered a human touch of speeches which embraced the audience with tears of joy and
sorrow that dried up within the hearts and soul and left the auditorium space full of a balanced and
solemn mood.
Dudu Fihlela, the Regional Director for eThekwini Region, shared a blistering but worthy and acute
thanks giving piece that kept all in attendance gaping and perplexed but fully nourished with words of
wisdom for personal growth. She led her way through to the podium singing her favourite song “This
Little Light of Mine“.
Above: Candle lighting by Dudu Fihlela (right)
She looked an epitome of elegance and good taste for one to think thick and deep about life – having
love, hope and faith at the cornerstone of her vote of thanks. “Candlelight” formed part of her
programme role. It should be understood that “candle lighting” service can vary depending on an
occasion or service itself and other several factors. During this period, Ms Fihlela reminded all to place
in the hearts and minds the sweet and good memories that keep everyone closer to those beloved
family members we have lost due to the effects of HIV/AIDS and other ailments.
It serves to mention that Dudu was fair, realistic and honest as she remained loyal to the course of
coaching those who in need of knowledge in dealing with the offerings of life. Little things mean a lot.
Her messages of advice will remain worthwhile to those in need. The benefits are that the recipient will
get a better work-life balance; get motivated and have clear career goals; improve career prospects;
make informed or positive decisions and be able to track personal or professional development.
Ms Fihlela thanked the event organisers, in particular the Employee Health and Wellness team, for the
sterling efforts they have put through in preparation of such a magnificent event. A big thanks was also
extended to all staff members from across the province who took that special time and making it
precious so as to fulfil that empty space in their hearts – find peace and solace with the world during
this period. A case for concern - the rate of attendance by management and staff to most departmental
events – especially at Head Office is gradually taking a decline. What good is not good enough to justify
such a trend?
Any way, if you would wish to choose any disability in life – which one would you opt for