The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture recently hosted a vibrant and deeply meaningful Long Service Awards ceremony, celebrating the dedication and commitment of its employees. The event was marked by a sense of excitement, pride, and appreciation, as staff gathered to honour colleagues whose years of service have helped shape the department’s legacy.
The ceremony created a warm and uplifting atmosphere, with employees expressing genuine happiness as they celebrated one another’s milestones. It was a moment not only of recognition, but of unity and renewed motivation across the department.
In reflecting on the significance of the occasion, the MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture emphasised the importance of acknowledging employees while they are still present to receive appreciation, noting: “Today is not simply another departmental gathering. It is a moment of reflection, appreciation and gratitude… a platform to say Thank you, Baie Dankie, Enkosi, Ke a leboga.” The MEC further underscored that recognition should never be delayed, adding that “silent gratitude isn’t much use to anyone,” reinforcing the department’s renewed commitment to celebrating its people.
Ms Jane Gadula, Acting Manager for the ZFM District, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how the ceremony restored a culture of appreciation within the institution and boosted staff morale. She noted that such moments strengthen relationships within teams and remind employees of the value of their contributions.
The success of the event was largely driven by the efforts of Mr Dulaxolo Vumazonke from Human Resource Management, who coordinated the programme. Reflecting on the experience, Mr Vumazonke shared that it was both an honour and a responsibility to ensure that employees received the recognition they deserve. He described the ceremony as “long overdue, but deeply rewarding,” adding that seeing the joy and pride on the faces of awardees made the effort worthwhile.
One of the most inspiring highlights of the day was the recognition of Ms Sarah Mokokong, who was honoured for an extraordinary 40 years of service. Her milestone drew admiration from colleagues across the department. In her remarks, Ms Mokokong expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating that her journey had been one of growth, learning, and purpose. She encouraged younger employees to remain committed and passionate, noting that dedication to public service brings both personal fulfilment and lasting impact. In absentia Mr Sheryl Fortuin from the ZFM District was also acknowledged for his 40 years of loyal service in the Public Service.
The ceremony also provided a moment of reflection, as the department remembered colleagues who had passed on, acknowledging their lasting contributions to the institution.
Ultimately, the Long Service Awards reaffirmed a powerful message: that people are the foundation of the department’s success. As the MEC noted, public servants are not just employees, but agents of change who shape communities and create opportunities.
The event not only celebrated years of service but also inspired a forward-looking vision—one where appreciation becomes part of the department’s culture, and where the legacy of long-serving employees continues to guide future generations.
