Brümilda Swartbooi
City employees revelled in a day of camaraderie, fitness, and enjoyment during the third annual Employee Engagement Day on Friday, 26 April 2024. The event, held at Marks Park in Emmarentia, witnessed a vibrant turnout and an array of activities that left participants invigorated and inspired.
The festivities commenced with a spirited fun-walk on the premises, with City Manager Floyd Brink, Member of Mayoral Committee for Group Corporate and Shared Services (GCSS) Cllr Loyiso Masuku, and Chief Operations Officer (COO) Tshepo Makola leading the charge alongside enthusiastic employees.
Various sporting codes including netball, soccer, volleyball, aerobics, and indigenous games drew a significant turnout, highlighting the city’s commitment to promoting holistic employee well-being.
Brink encouraged active participation, emphasising the event’s focus on enhancing physical, mental, and emotional wellness.
“This day is dedicated to you, our valued colleagues,” he expressed. “Your engagement is vital to our success as a city. Together, we foster morale, strengthen teamwork, and expand networks. You are the backbone of our community.
“The programme focuses on physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. This is a day of relaxing we want to boost morale, team building and networking. I always say without you I’m nothing. Without you, nothing will happen in the City, so you are the asset of the City.”
Cllr Masuku echoed Brink’s sentiments, underscoring the pivotal role of staff in the city’s prosperity. “Today exemplifies our appreciation for your dedication. You are our most important resource. If we don’t have the human capital to assist us to deliver to residents of Johannesburg, then there’s no Johannesburg. You are at the centre of excellence.”
In addition to exhilarating activities, exhibitors and sponsors provided essential support, with Red Bull offering energy-boosting drinks and Joburg Market supplying fresh fruits to sustain participants throughout the day. Notable exhibitors included Virgin Active, Mancosa, Library and Information Services, Moso Consulting, Human Settlements, Old Mutual, African Bank, and Hollywoodbets, catering to diverse interests and needs.
The event culminated in an awards ceremony, recognising outstanding achievements across various categories. Notable winners included Ondela Tywakadi in chess, Poppy Seema in Morabaraba, Daniel Pule in draughts, and Kagiso Sekhwebedu in Ludo. Female winners of the fun-walk comprised Lerato Moletsanie, Babongile Gama, and Anne Bosch, while male winners included David, Tshepareg, and Trevor.
Overall, the success of the Employee Engagement Day underscores the city’s commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and vibrant work culture, ensuring employee satisfaction and productivity for years to come.
Keep an eye out for this Friday’s internal newsletter, Mahungu-Ya-Vatirhi, for more photos.
SOURCED FROM THE CITY’S WEBSITE.
