Merle

Date Of Birth: February, 1976

City: Sherwood, Durban

Languages: English and Afrikaans

Hobbies: Reading and Exploring

I currently live in Durban but am originally from Port Shepstone.

As a kind and compassionate individual, I am known for my well-mannered demeanor, honesty, and frequent smiles. I thrive on spending time with people and enjoy engaging in intellectual conversations while learning and experiencing new things through others and life itself.

My interests include museums, history, art galleries, and ballroom dancing. In my youth, I was a competitive ballroom dancer. I also love to travel and explore different cities, including those in Europe. I have a deep appreciation for the elderly, understanding the loneliness that can come with age. Building friendships and positively impacting their lives is very important to me.

I completed my caregiver course in February 2021 and have experience in home-based care for clients with some basic medical needs. Since joining the CareChamp family in 2016, I have been dedicated to assisting various clients in Durban and have thoroughly enjoyed my journey with them.

Jody E

Date of Birth: 27 December 1965

City: Athlone, Cape Town

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Gardening

REVIEWS RECEIVED FROM CLIENTS

What makes you a good companion?

“I have a great understanding of the elderly and I take my lead from the client and then follow the tone for the day”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I’m a good listener and I believe that patience is key, especially when working with the elderly. From experience I understand that they need to feel in control at all times.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“This is how I give back to society and it is self satisfying to know that I've made someone happy.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?

“ I love nature and long leisurely walks on the beach.”

What personal values are most important to you?
”Kindness, respect, generosity, humbleness and patience, these values were very important in my home growing up.”

Candice

Date Of Birth: September 6, 1971

City: Randburg, Gauteng

Languages: English and Afrikaans

Hobbies:Reading and Listeng to music

What makes you a good companion?

“I like to spend time giving back and hopefully bring a little happiness to someone's life. I always want to do work that is meaningful. ”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?
”I am a good listener and I am always glad to help with errands and any tasks the patient may need, being helpful is what I am to do ,to ensure my clients are always satisfied.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“Understanding their needs and assisting them with their tasks to make everything easier.”

What was the best day at work you’ve ever had and what made it so good?

”My efforts were recognized and appreciated by a client and this made me feel good because it meant I was doing a good job. ”

Sarah C

Date of Birth: 24 September 1962

City: Northriding, Johannesburg

Languages: English

Hobbies: Watching classical movies

REVIEWS RECEIVED FROM CLIENTS

What makes you a good companion?

“ I am very patient and love to listen and assist the elderly. Often they find no one to talk to or have lost their partners. I recently lost my mother which has made me more appreciative of giving back.

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I am patient, a good listener and can assist with cooking and cleaning. I enjoy sharing knowledge and helping with technology .”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I enjoy their company as they have such rich and interesting lives which I enjoy hearing about.”

Your best day at work you've ever had and what made it so good?

“Going to Swaziland with the Reach for a Dream kids to meet their sporting heroes. John Smit and AJ Venter got dressed up in traditional outfits which made heads turn. The kids laughed so much they forgot all their problems. It was a wonderful day and hearing those chuckles was worth everything. “

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?

“ I love animals, gardening and travel.”

Colleen

Date of Birth: March 11, 1970

City: Ottery, Western Cape

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Zumba and other exercises, dancing, road trips and long walks

REVIEWS RECEIVED FROM CLIENTS

What makes you a good companion?
”I have a passion for elderly, I love being a companion to them. I believe that patience is very important when working with the elderly, and that is one of my strengths. I’m also a good listener, which is exactly what the elderly needs.”

Share with me a time when you displayed [one of our company’s values].Capable, honest, attentive, Mindful & Pioneering?
”I was on bar duty and a staff member left her purse behind. I made contact with her to bring it to her attention, however she was not capable of driving to collect. I went after my shift to drop it off at her place. This scenario highlights all of this company’s values, and will be utilised whenever I am at shift as a companion.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified as a companion?
”I feel fully confident in being a companion as I possess key features needed to be a companion. I am a patient, kind and caring person who always has love to give.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?
”I am excited to give of myself and my time to uplift their spirits, it brings me self satisfaction and peace of mind knowing that I was able to assist them.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?
”I am a certified first aider and also did training in Occupational Health and Safety.”

Yvonne

Date of Birth: 21 May 1965

City: Plumstead, Cape Town

Languages: English and Afrikaans

Hobbies: Going for drives and crocheting

What makes you a good companion?

“What makes me a good companion is my attentive listening skills and heartfelt dedication to caring for the elderly.”

Your best day at work you’ve ever had and what made it so good?

“The highlight of my workday is witnessing the happiness and enthusiasm on the face of the person I care for, and hearing the joy in their voice.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I feel most qualified to be a companion because of my exceptional ability to actively listen, my profound empathy towards others, and my genuine passion for providing caring support. These qualities allow me to connect deeply with individuals and create meaningful relationships based on understanding and compassion.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I find great joy in the company of the elderly and take pride in being a compassionate listener for them.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?

“⁠I am very intuitive, and I love uplifting people’s energy.”

Nicolette

Date of Birth: 18 August 1967

City: Athlone, Cape Town

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: I love exploring

REVIEWS RECEIVED FROM CLIENTS

What makes you a good companion?

“I have a heartfelt passion to care for others as well as children. I was a family caregiver for a few years as I had to look after my aunt and my dad who both had dementia, but just being there for them in their time of need to encourage them and do special things that make them happy was very fulfilling.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I am a good listener and enjoy interacting with people, I give great massages which came in handy with pressure care when I was taking care of my loved one. I also love caring for babies and children, watching them reach various milestones, and being a part of their little bright journey called life.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“It’s time now for me to give back to those who once cared for us and it also excites me to bring smiles to their faces, just being able to assist them is a privilege.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?

“ I did a firefighting course.”

What personal values are most important to you?
”Respect, kindness, and with that comes humbleness, growing up, these values were very important in my home.”

Kim S

Get To Know Me Better

Date Of Birth: 01 July 1983

City: Roodepoort, Johannesburg

Languages: English and Afrikaans

Hobbies: Gardening, reading, long walks and listening music

What makes you a good companion?

“I excel in being both adaptable and focused, ensuring that I can respond to changing situations while maintaining a consistent and supportive presence for those in my care.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a caregiver and companion?

“I am most experienced and skilled in providing compassionate care to the elderly, particularly those who are frail and require additional support. My focus is on promoting their dignity, safety, and well-being.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I love knowing that I can be a source of support for seniors, especially when their families need to work or take care of other responsibilities. It’s incredibly rewarding to be someone they can rely on, and to offer both them and their families peace of mind.”

What's the most interesting thing about you?

“I’m a big animal lover! I actively volunteer with a few nonprofit organisations to help animals in need. I believe that caring for animals also helps me bring more empathy and patience to my work with people.”

Taj

Date of Birth: January 12, 1997

City: Blouberg, WC

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Writing, bouldering, Arts & craft

What makes you a good companion?

‘‘As an individual with a profound sense of compassion, I believe I possess the requisite skills and personality to serve as a companion. I am adept at managing a household and bring experience in administration and service provision.’’

In what skills area do you feel most qualified as a companion?

”I take great pleasure in listening to the life experiences of others and am always ready to offer assistance where needed. I have personally assisted my own grandmother, who is known for her stubbornness, by helping her walk and ensuring her comfort.

Moreover, being a mother has further honed my soft skills, including:

• Patience

• Compassion

• Empathy

• Emotional awareness

• Determination

• Adaptability

• Attentiveness”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

‘‘I am particularly enthusiastic about engaging in work driven by genuine passion and contributing to something that holds significant meaning’’

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?

‘‘A concealed skill of mine includes the ability to sing, coupled with proficiency in playing the French horn.’’

Cornel

Date Of Birth: 24 July 2001

City: Somerset West, Cape Town

Languages: English, Afrikaans

Hobbies: Baking, cooking, watching movies

What makes you a good companion?

“I’m passionate about supporting the elderly with patience, compassion, and a gentle approach. I offer emotional support and always ensure my clients feel heard and valued.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I excel in communication, emotional support, and helping seniors with mobility challenges. I enjoy fostering social connections and engaging in activities that promote well-being.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I connect easily with seniors and enjoy learning from their life experiences. It’s rewarding to make a difference in their lives while sharing in their stories.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?

“I manage the multimedia at church and enjoy diamond dotting, which allows me to express my creativity outside of work.”

Leandri

Date Of Birth: 04 May 1989

City: Brackenfell, Cape Town

Languages: English, Afrikaans

Hobbies: Spending time with family

What makes you a good companion?

“Being a companion is more than just a job—it’s about truly caring. I have a deep passion for working with older adults. Patience, compassion, and understanding are at the heart of everything I do. I believe in open communication, always keeping families informed and involved.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I’m skilled in offering emotional support and companionship. My background in a medical practice has also given me valuable experience in working with people in a healthcare setting.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“Seeing how companionship improves their mood and outlook is truly fulfilling. I love listening to their stories, engaging them in meaningful activities, and bringing joy to their daily lives.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?

“I’m creative and love finding new ways to inspire and uplift others—whether through activities, conversations, or simply sharing a laugh.”

Ntshadi

Date Of Birth: 25 November 1966

City: Somerset West, Cape Town

Languages: English, IsiXhosa, IsiZulu

Hobbies: Singing, dancing and playing tennis

What makes you a good companion?

“I’m a good companion because I genuinely care about people and listen attentively. My patience and empathy help me connect with others and provide meaningful support, whether it’s sharing a conversation or offering practical assistance.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I’m skilled in offering emotional support and companionship. I’m also experienced in assisting with daily tasks and creating a safe, engaging environment for seniors.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I’m excited about working with seniors because I connect with them easily, and I understand how they feel. I enjoy helping them live life to the fullest, respecting their abilities, and providing care without making them feel rushed.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?

“Gardening is a big passion of mine, as I advocate for healthy eating by growing my own vegetables and fruits. I also enjoy drawing and designing, which brings a creative side to my work.”

Belinda A

Date Of Birth: 10 October 1974

City: Stellenbosch, Cape Town

Languages: English and IsiXhosa

Hobbies: Cooking and Baking

What makes you a good childminder

"I believe being a good caregiver means having a genuine sense of empathy and the ability to truly connect with those you’re caring for. I stay calm under pressure, remain observant to small changes, and adapt easily to meet each person’s unique needs."

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a caregiver?
"My strengths lie in problem-solving and organizing tasks efficiently. I’m well-versed in medical terminology and procedures, and I’m confident in identifying early signs of health changes."
What makes you most excited about working with seniors?
"I genuinely enjoy building relationships with seniors—their life stories, wisdom, and sense of humor are always inspiring. Every conversation brings a new perspective and reminds me why I love this work."

What personal values are most important to you?
"Patience, integrity, empathy, compassion, and strong communication are values I live by. They guide how I care for others and how I carry myself every day."

Kirsten

Date Of Birth: 15 July 1993

City: Seapoint, Cape Town

Languages: English, Afrikaans

Hobbies: Discovering new coffee spots, taking long drives, enjoying walks in nature

What makes you a good companion?

“I’m educated and curious, which makes for stimulating conversations with seniors who want to stay connected with the world around them. I bring energy and excitement into every moment spent together.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I’m most qualified in building strong interpersonal relationships. My great sense of humor helps keep seniors young at heart, and my background in psychology allows me to be both attentive and empathetic to their needs. Additionally, I’m a good driver, so clients can feel safe and comfortable when travelling with me.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I’m excited to learn from the wisdom and life experiences of older people. Life is full of ups and downs, and seniors have lived through it all. I cherish the opportunity to hear their stories and gain insights into the resilience and beauty of life.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?

“I co-published a book of life lessons with my gran’s best friend, who is now 106 years old! We gathered one piece of advice for each year of her life and compiled it into a book for her loved ones. This project deepened my passion for combating loneliness and capturing the wisdom and beauty that seniors have to offer.”

Patricia

Date Of Birth: 02 January 1959

City: Germiston, Gauteng

Languages: English

Hobbies: Reading and doing crossword puzzles

What makes you a good companion?

“What makes me a good companion is my genuine interest in people. I enjoy getting to know others by listening attentively, and I’m a good conversationalist, happy to chat about many topics. However, I’m also eager to hear others’ thoughts and stories, making sure they feel valued and heard.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I believe my strengths lie in my compassion, patience, and ability to connect with others. Many elderly people can feel isolated, and I take pride in offering them companionship, being a good listener, and engaging in meaningful conversations that bring them comfort and joy.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“What excites me most is the opportunity to connect with seniors and learn from their life experiences. Many older individuals are lonely, and I want to help them feel heard, respected, and valued. They have a wealth of knowledge to share, and I’m excited to build those relationships and offer them companionship.”

Coralé

Date Of Birth: 02 January 1986

City: Durbanville, Cape Town

Languages: English, Afrikaans

Hobbies: Baking, Cooking and spending time with family

What makes you a good companion?
”I have extensive experience providing caregiving and companionship to my retired mother, which has strengthened my strong sense of empathy and desire to help others. I have spent years supporting family members and am eager to extend this care to others.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I feel most qualified in offering empathetic support, meaningful companionship, and practical help, including errands and preparing healthy meals to enhance well-being.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?

“I have a deep passion for baking and cooking, using them to bring comfort and joy to others. I find fulfillment in creating dishes that foster connection and create lasting memories.”

What personal values are most important to you?

“Kindness, respect, generosity, humility, and patience were core values instilled in me from a young age and were always emphasized in my home.”

Linda G

Date Of Birth: 10 November 1994

City: Brooklyn, Cape Town

Languages: English, IsiXhosa, IsiZulu

Hobbies: Cooking, listening to music

What makes you a good companion?

“I believe what makes me a good companion is my ability to really listen and connect with my clients. I take the time to connect with them on a personal level, offering comfort and support as needed.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I’m most skilled at providing emotional support and companionship. I believe that creating a peaceful and supportive atmosphere is key to fostering emotional well-being.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“Many seniors face social isolation, and I am excited to offer companionship, emotional support, and engaging conversations to help with loneliness. It’s truly fulfilling to make a positive difference in their day-to-day lives.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?

“I’m a trained beautician and nail tech, which allows me to offer clients a little extra care and pampering, adding to their sense of well-being.”

Lungile T

Date Of Birth: 26 January 1986

City: Soweto, Johannesburg

Languages: English, IsiXhosa, IsiZulu and Siswati

Hobbies: Cooking, Arts and Craft, reading , and gardening

What makes you a good companion?

“I believe what makes me a good companion is my ability to really listen and connect with others. I’m patient, empathetic, and always try to create a comfortable, supportive environment. I make sure to brighten their day with meaningful conversations and activities.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a companion?

“I’m most skilled at providing emotional support and companionship. I also have experience assisting with daily tasks, medication reminders, and mobility support, which helps maintain independence and dignity.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I love hearing the stories and wisdom of seniors. Building meaningful relationships and making a positive impact on their lives is rewarding.”

Lelanie G

Get To Know Me Better

Date Of Birth: 02 May 1967

City: Roodepoort, Johannesburg

Languages: English and Afrikaans

Hobbies: Camping ,Reading and Painting

What makes you a good caregiver and companion?

“I’m a good caregiver/companion because I prioritize others' needs, ensuring both their medical and personal well-being. I’m patient, attentive, and empathetic, which helps me build trust and create a positive environment for those I care for.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified to be a caregiver and companion?

“My experience in elder care has helped me develop strong skills in providing daily assistance, including tasks like bed baths, nappy changing, and wound dressing. I’m patient and a good communicator, which enables me to offer the right support and create a secure environment.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I’m excited to work with seniors because I enjoy learning from their life stories and experiences. I find it fulfilling to offer companionship and make a positive difference in their lives while supporting them through meaningful challenges.”

What values are most important to you?

“I value kindness and respect. Kindness helps me build strong connections with others, and respect ensures I meet their needs in a compassionate and dignified way.”