By Willemien Jansen (HST Copy and Content Editor)
How long have you been with the Health System Trust (HST) and which position do you occupy?
I have been with HST for close to a year and I am a Researcher in the Research and Implementation Science Unit (RIS).
Please share some information about what your current role entails.
In my current position I lead various projects, which entails protocol development, stakeholder engagements as well as seeking for ethical, district and provincial approvals. I facilitate training workshops with fieldworkers and other Researchers, co-ordinating data collection and analysis. Moreover, I am responsible for writing study related reports, and dissemination of research results through different channels such as feedback sessions with the sub-committee, stakeholders and funders such as National Department of Health (NDoH), as well as attending conferences.
What influenced your decision to be in the development/Non-governmental organisation (NGO) sector?
I have always been passionate about public health on a broader spectrum. I have observed that in the health sector we focus primarily on the symptoms and not the root causes of the problems. As a Researcher, my responsibility is to investigate and identify the various causes of the many health related challenges. Using the data collected, we analyse and formulate technical recommendations that will mitigate the burden of diseases on the healthcare sector. I felt that the best way my abilities and expertise will be utilised effectively is through an NGO such as HST, which is people-centred and focuses immensely on the health and wellbeing of communities.
How do you spend your time away from work?
I am fascinated with nature and as a result, I travel and explore new places. Hiking is also one of the activities that is close to my heart as it brings me close to the mother nature. I enjoy cooking and preparing delicious meals for myself and my family. During my spare time, I also dedicate a portion of my time visiting and helping the vulnerable, particularly children in various charity homes.
What gives you motivation?
I draw strength from strong African women who have walked the path before me, as I perceive myself as a strong African woman who has encountered different adversities that I have conquered. A quote that keeps me going and I live by is one by Maya Angelou: 'I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it'.
What is the best advice you've ever received in your life? (personal or professional)
The best advice that I have received is that we are never granted opportunities that are beyond our capabilities. Therefore, I should always look at a situation that I am facing as a challenge that I need to grow from and conquer.
Any future aspirations?
My future aspiration is to grow professionally and excel in my area of expertise.