Kensington’s Celeste retires from Child Welfare SA Edenvale
The senior social worker was born in Kensington and went to Jeppe Girls High School.
Senior social worker Celeste Thies spent her last day on March 1 at the Child Welfare SA Edenvale after serving as a social worker for 25 years.
“It’s time for me to retire and let young social workers take over. They are more than capable,” said Celeste.
Retiring from child welfare is not the end of Celeste’s social work career. She owns a private practice that she will continue to work in.
With over 20 years at the welfare, she said one thing she will miss the most is the staff.
“The staff members at Edenvale have the same goal and that is to make the lives of the community and children protected better and to provide a much-needed service.
“I will be available to help the welfare at any time,” said Celeste.
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The senior social worker was born in Kensington and was a learner at Jeppe High School for Girls.
Celeste went on to further her studies at Unisa where she obtained her qualifications.
“I have a passion for children and I don’t like to see children in difficult situations.”
“The family system is no longer strong these days which is sad. Alcohol and drugs also have negative effects on children. We, as adults, must assist children in the best way we can,” said Celeste.
She explained how social work is stressful and how it is not a routine job.
“You need to be able to balance your work and personal life. It is stressful removing children from their homes and trying to find a safe place.”
Walking, flower arranging and being an active member of a church helps her to de-stress.
“It has been a pleasure to work in Edenvale community. The people are generally nice people and they understand the role of a social worker.”
The welfare hosted a farewell party for Celeste where the chairperson Pieter le Roux and vice-chairperson Nikki Van Der Walt of Ward 18 Clr Heather Hart, staff and colleagues attended.
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A short play to celebrate Celeste saw staff members mimic Celeste and what she did daily.
One of Celeste’s colleagues Rangarirai Mkumbira, a social worker, said Celeste welcomed her with open arms in 2015 when she first started working at the welfare.
“I thought Celeste was too firm but I grew a thick skin and that helped me.
“I am grateful for the time she spent with us. She will be missed.”
Van der Walt thanked Celeste for her years of commitment and dedication.
“Her wisdom has been helpful and we have benefited in every way from all her hard work and experience in the field.
“We would like to wish her well on her retirement. May she have the rest and relaxation she deserves,” said Van der Walt.
