It was a day to look back on the challenging year everybody had – the immeasurable hardship they experienced and the hard work they’ve put in throughout 2020.

Sterkfontein Hospital decided that it was time to honour their staff for all they have been giving to their patients throughout the Covid-19 pandemic by hosting an awards ceremony.

This was the first of what they call the Employee Value Proposition programme by which they aim to celebrate and reward doctors, nurses and other staff for their accomplishments every year.

CEO Jimmy Mapunya said in his opening remarks, “Through the adversity we encountered due to the Covid-19 pandemic, as an institution we unleashed skills that we didn’t know we possessed, and we soldiered on through it all. Patient care was not affected at all, and for that we thank you.”

He explained that the theme was ‘going beyond the call of duty’, which means to be compassionate, work with dignity and provide the best patient care.

The programme’s provincial coordinator, Elizabeth Thebe said that, “An open hand receives more than a hand that is closed. As public servants who walk the extra mile, we ought to go the extra mile in ensuring that the work is done and not let circumstances such as budget and lack of finances hinder what needs to be done.”

Operational Manager, Sister Mpolekeng Meshe received a special award for her role in motivating and helping staff throughout the hospital.

Nthangeni Tshililo received the Auxiliary Nurse award, Katlego Tsilo was awarded the Professional Nurse award, Shiyekile Radebe got the Operational Manager award, Oupa Lesie the Assistant Manager award, Kabelo Modisane the Corporate Department award, Mpolokeng Meshe the Adjudicator award, and Tshilidzi Ngoveni was announced as the runner-up to the CEO’s award. Doctor Nchitho Hamukoma received much of the praise, and she was awarded the CEO’s award and an individual award for doctors.