In the busy corridors of corporate life, where schedules are packed and deadlines loom large, it's easy to lose sight of the impact one can have beyond the confines of the office. However, this Volunteer Day, in a heartwarming display of compassion and community spirit, three dedicated staff members from Vodacom share about their time away from their daily routines to engage in a different kind of mission. All Vodacom staff are given two leave days in addition to their annual leave, to spend volunteering. In a world that is constantly evolving, the need for compassion and community involvement has never been more vital.
Augusta Pallinevello - Sales and Fixed Support for Vodacom Business Division
How did you spend your volunteer day?
We had World Hunger Day from the 18th October to the 26th October where we sponsored food and care packs to EP Childrens Home, Sakhingomso Primary School in Pedi and The Oncology Ward at Livingstone Hospital, which are all in the Eastern Cape.
What is your perspective on the days off that Vodacom offers its employees for volunteering activities?
I appreciate the companies initiative to provide days off for volunteering. It fosters a culture of social responsibility and shows that the company not only values productivity, but also community engagement. It allows employees to contribute meaningfully beyond their usual work.
What significance does volunteering hold for you?
It provides a sense of fulfilment and purpose. It’s a way to give back to the community and make a positive impact. Personally, it enriches my life by connecting me with diverse people and causes.
Do you advocate for others to dedicate their time to volunteer as well?
Absolutely. I believe everyone has something valuable to contribute and volunteering is a powerful way to do so. I encourage others to dedicate their time to cases they are passionate about. It not only benefits the community but also enhances personal growth and empathy. Dedicating your time and talent without expecting anything in return is heartwarming.
Lavinia Koopman - Executive Secretary at Vodacom
How did you spend your volunteer day?
My last volunteering activity was the Vodacom partnership with WWF, I joined the executive team in Saldanha Bay, Western Cape on the 17th of November this year. The Vodacom Foundation renovated Oppie Gallopie ECD (Early Childhood Development) centre and launched a computer lab at the Diazville High School.
What is your perspective on the days off that Vodacom offers its employees for volunteering activities?
The two volunteering days Vodacom offers employees is an amazing initiative to enable staff to give back.
What significance does volunteering hold for you?
The time Vodacom gives employees to enable them to participate is awesome. Making a difference in peoples lives give me great pleasure even if the contribution is small. Being raised in a family that has always fed the community has made volunteering part of my DNA.
Do you advocate for others to dedicate their time to volunteer as well?
Yes I do! I am a huge fan of allyship, and my team can confirm that.
Unathi Mzilikazi - Sales and Marketing Specialist at Vodacom
How did you spend your volunteer day?
I do a few things. I’m a graduate programme lead, not only through Vodacom but in different locations within Kwa-Zulu Natal, where I mentor young students to help them find jobs and assist in unlocking the doors of employment. I also assist young mothers who are in school to help them navigate school, motherhood, as well as reminding them not to forget about their dreams.
What is your perspective on the days off that Vodacom offers its employees for volunteering activities?
We work for such an amazing organisation that allows us time to volunteer without this affecting any of my annual leave days.
What significance does volunteering hold for you?
It touches me personally coming from a background where I did not have this support. It connects me to the people and makes me understand that not everybody is the same or has the same background. It comforts me to know that I am making a difference in my community.
Do you advocate for others to dedicate their time to volunteer as well?
Absolutely, I believe planting trees alone will never stop global warming. That means we need more hands within the volunteering space in order to make an impactful difference. I believe in being the change that I want to see and I’m sure we all wish to see things change in our environment.
If you would like to work for a business with a purpose, apply for a job at Vodacom here.
