Six weeks ago a new face joined the Avril Elizabeth Home’s team.
Ronel de Freitas-Smit became the CEO of the home, which cares for the intellectually disabled and, on Thursday, the GCN took the opportunity to get to know her better.
Ronel, an animal lover, was born in Alberton, but grew up in a small town in the Boland, before returning to Johannesburg 10 years ago.
When asked why she decided to join the team at Avril Elizabeth, she said: “I know it sounds clichéd, but I wanted to put the skills I have to good use.
“I have worked with non-profit organisations (NPOs) for many years and have learned what should and shouldn’t be done.
“When I heard about the position here I couldn’t think of a better way to use my skills.”
Ronel wants her main focus as CEO to be the provision of excellent care to all the residents for whom the home cares.
“They deserve to have the best life possible,” she said.
As a start on this goal she has launched a project that will see all the staff members applying for and receiving a clearance certificate, which will show that they have never been accused or convicted of a sexual offence against a minor or disabled person.
“Another way we can assure quality service to our residents,” she said.
Ronel is still getting to know the 154 residents and 154 staff members who make up the Avril Elizabeth Home, but shared one of her fond memories of her short time at the home.
“I was doing rounds with a member of the staff when we visited one of our more severely disabled residents,” she said.
“Recognising my colleague, he decided to play a prank on her by faking a fit.
“Realising the prank had worked he laughed; it was so beautiful to see that, despite everything, he has an amazing sense of humour.”
When asked which area at the home was her favourite, Ronel admitted that she loves the workshop.
“You cannot leave the workshop in a bad mood; everyone is so welcoming and wants to show you what they are doing and how they are doing it,” she said with a smile.
Ronel is supported by her husband George, daughter Megan (20), son Emil (16) and step-daughter Lousie (12) and looks forward to involving them in some of the activities at the home.
