TZANEEN – A simple act of honesty has left a lasting impression on local pensioner Anne-Marie du Plessis, who is publicly thanking two Wimpy employees for going above and beyond after she lost her cellphone at Lifestyle Centre.

Du Plessis said she accidentally left her cellphone in a toilet at the shopping centre and feared it was gone forever.

Staff trace phone back to its owner

However, thanks to the integrity of Wimpy employee Gloria Makgoba and the assistance of then-manager Nicholas Mangena, she was soon reunited with her phone.

According to Du Plessis, Makgoba found the cellphone and handed it straight to Mangena, who worked to trace its owner and eventually reached Du Plessis through her daughter, allowing her to collect the phone safely.

“I was so relieved when I received the call,” said Du Plessis.

“I honestly thought I would never see my phone again. It restored my faith in people to know that there are still honest and caring individuals who choose to do the right thing.”

“I couldn’t thank them enough”

She said the kindness and professionalism shown by both employees meant more than words could express.

“I am extremely grateful for their honesty, kindness and friendliness. I couldn’t thank them enough for what they did for me. They treated me with such respect, and I will never forget their kindness.”

A phone she couldn’t afford to replace

As a pensioner, Du Plessis said replacing the phone would not have been easy.

“Losing my phone would have been one of the worst things that could have happened to me. It would have taken me a long time to save enough money to buy another one. My phone is important because it keeps me in contact with my family, especially my daughter.”

Wanting to show her appreciation, Du Plessis gave the workers a small token of thanks after collecting her phone.

“It wasn’t much, but I wanted them to know how much I appreciated what they had done. People who show honesty and integrity deserve to be recognised. I hope they know how thankful I am.”