Strathyre Girls Home in Kensington has welcomed a new administrator, Major Naomi Malinga.
“I’m happy to be here. The community and home have welcomed me with open arms and I feel at home,” said Mpumalanga-born Malinga.
“A family friend invited my father to the church [Salvation Army] and we fell in love with it and became members and have been with the church ever since.”
The Salvation Army is a Protestant international charitable organisation structured in a quasi-military fashion and they refer to their officials as officers and majors.
Read: Salvation Army’s work in the spotlight
Malinga said it was not part of her plans to become an officer in the Salvation Army, which she has been part of for 30 years, but as she had a calling to serve others, she could not resist when a call was made for officers by the organisation.
“But I was stubborn – I volunteered but never fully committed [to being an officer]. It took a special announcement, again calling for officers, and I answered that call and found myself at The Salvation Army training college.”
She said the journey was challenging but those challenges were also lessons.
Malinga is not new to a leadership position. Before taking over the reigns at the Strathyre Girls Home, she ran a crèche in KwaZulu-Natal, served in other areas within the church and established various projects.
“One of the projects I’m passionate about is a home-based care project where we visit homes and assist those who cannot do things on their own. Helping those in need is a blessing.”
When she was told about the position at the home, Malinga was not sure as she had never managed a home but welcomed the challenge. “I have managed crèches before and worked with children. So, when I came to visit the home last year to meet the girls, I felt at home. I was unsure about accepting the position but meeting the girls sealed the deal for me.
“I never thought I would get such an appointment but am honoured and look forward to working with the community. When you are appointed to a position you are not only there for the job but there for the community.” She thanked the community and Ward 118 councillor Neuron Pietersen for the support given to the home.
Details: 011 615 7327; administrator@strathyre.org.za
Edited by Stacey Woensdregt
