Raising spirits by raising funds
It is said that from small or humble beginnings come great things and Margaret Malatjie is testament to the saying.
POLOKWANE – Malatji, also known as Maggie, started working at the Association for Persons with Disabilities (APD) nine years ago as a cleaner and was recently appointed as fundraiser for the association.
“I am responsible for all the fundraising and the awareness campaigns. I have to educate people about the APD as well as the people with disabilities.”
She explains that she was initially appointed as cleaner and then promoted to cook. She was later promoted to the post of receptionist where she impressed everyone who contacted the APD with her friendly voice and helpful manner.
“I am a passionate person who is also kind, patient and responsible. My new position comes with a few challenges such as the pressure that I now will work under. But I have the support of my colleagues and I will excel in my position. It is not going to be easy, but I will definitely do my best.”
One of the biggest tasks that lies ahead is Casual Day that will take place on 1 September where Maggie will have to create awareness and sell tickets and other merchandise for this campaign.
“I will also organise the Wheelchair Wednesday campaign that will start on 30 June. Here we want to raise awareness for people in wheelchairs, get organisations and corporate companies to donate wheelchairs, as well as spend a few hours in a wheelchair. There is also the APD clothing shop that is open once a month.”
Maggie explains that she is motivated and passionate, and because she started working at the APD when she was young, she knows most of the residents at Centenary House.
“I learned a lot about them and am able to face the challenges of life because of what these residents have taught me.”
