INTERN AT NEW BEGINNINGS TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATION
As a Director of a small non profit, New Beginnings and Training Organisation, in reality means wearing many caps…. manager, fund raiser, curriculum developer, networker, trainer, researcher and the list goes on. I knew I needed help but hesitated given the funding implications. So when I saw the opportunity that GAP provided in terms of employing an intern, I took the opportunity to look for someone.
I received many names to check and it took me a month to find someone who met our requirements ie had an understanding of the NGO world, shared our value systems and was willing to work with us in the field of early childhood. For me I wanted someone who had some academic qualification as well, who was a team player, willing to learn , be flexible, work hard and pay attention to detail- tall order. Lilly Zulu was that person. We spoke on the phone a few times and she accepted to intern with New Beginnings. A week later she turned down the offer. I was disappointed. After thinking it through and given that she had what I was looking for, I called her up and asked her why she turned down the offer and she mentioned that she wanted to save costs re accommodation, transport etc. I put forward the idea if I could assist her with this challenge, would she reconsider. She agreed. I then found local accommodation at half the cost near our offices which meant that there was no travel cost as she could walk to our offices. Called Lilly back and told her what I had arranged and she accepted.
Although she was to have started on July 1, she arrived two days early. I picked her up and settled her in at her new home. From that day, I feel I have found someone who can work with me, this is not easy as I strive toward perfection at all levels, work at odd hours, manage many projects, multi task and can be impatient at times.
I have to say thank you to LEGENDS and GAP , as GAP has facilitated me finding a gem… smart, hard worker, respectful, professional, willing to try new things. She always has a smile and a warm word … She is currently assisting me in managing the audit of ECD sites in KZN and with general administrative support. Her attached reports speak to her experiences at New Beginnings to date. I have also learnt that sometimes it is not only about the monies but other things that can be provided that can facilitate the appointment of an intern.
Patsy Pillay
Director