I like listening to other people and to help solve their problems. It takes my eyes off my own, and I get a lot of job satisfaction when I can do something for someone that they needed done to make their job or their life easier or better.”
This defines Vicky Joubert, Human Resources Officer at the Palabora Foundation, and her outlook on life. Vicky has been with the Foundation for 10 years and is doing a post graduate degree in human resources at the University of South Africa. She was born and raised in Ba-Phalaborwa, where many of her immediate family members still reside.
She believes the Foundation has an extremely important role in the community, especially by facilitating skills transfer for people who do not have the opportunity to complete their tertiary education.
“Over the years, the community has really looked up to us and thought we did good work. Our challenge is to stay in touch with their needs and then adapt our strategies.”
Last year, the Foundation significantly streamlined its strategy and Vicky believes they are on the right track. is revision and re-alignment is also driven by a focused approach on sustainability and fundraising.
Vicky believes the appointment of a professional fundraiser or fundraising agency may be a viable option for the Foundation. The Foundation has a work culture and ethic that support a stable work force. It pays market related salaries and allows staff to develop their skills.
“Many of the organisations that work with us, like our auditors, comment on the friendliness and openness of our staff. I believe we have many employees who want to do their part to secure the future of the Foundation and if given the opportunity, they will.”
