Companion

Melanie

Date of Birth: 29 March 1969

City: Sonneglans, Johannesburg

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Painting

What makes you a good companion?

My motto in life has always been, "Kindness is being someone who makes everyone feel like somebody". I don’t care where you come from or what your story is but I will always treat you with kindness, respect, and love. Its taken me many years to get to this point where I feel I have found my calling in life, I want to continue helping people, and I know I have what it takes.

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

“I know I can make a difference in their lives. I have learned so much from the incredible Hospice staff that came to check up on my mom when she was ill. I want to put what I learned to good use. I want to grow as a person. I want to make a difference.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I feel in my heart that my calling in life is to assist the elderly. I have always had so much patience and love for them, I assist my hubby with his elderly patience and go and collect them from the retirement homes, I assist them with their hearing aids, etc. I have a close bond with all our patience.”

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

I have had many good days, just being able to bring a smile to someone's face by showing them kindness brings me so much joy. “

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

“I am involved with a charity for children, I bake for the children and assist where I can. To see those little faces light up, and knowing I made a small difference in their day makes me happy..”

Tanya

Date of Birth: September 28, 1987

City: Milnerton, Western Cape

Languages: English

Hobbies: Spending time with family & friends and entertaining/hosting

What makes you a good companion?
”I have many years of experience looking after all ages, from newborns through to teenagers and now adults. Before the pandemic I owned a Daycare in Table View, so I am extremely passionate about caring, attentiveness and safe keeping. I currently assist a special needs adult daily and I am thoroughly enjoying it.”

Share with me a time when you displayed [one of our company’s values].Capable, honest, attentive, Mindful & Pioneering?
”I believe I display your company's values most days in my current job as a companion to a special needs adult. She relies on me for safety, making her appointments, transportation and someone she can talk to. This requires a capable, patient, humble, loyal and honest person which I believe I achieve as well as enjoy.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified as a companion?
”My skills vary from being compassionate and being a good listener. I'm a people pleaser, so I always make it my mission to provide quality care. I enjoy organisation, admin and running errands.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?
”I believe that seniors need company and enjoyment more than any age, as well as to feel wanted and important and I enjoy being able to provide that to. Also not to be made to feel 'different' because of any disabilities or inabilities.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?
I care for my parents a few times a week as well as my siblings has moved over seas. As they have become dependent on my usual visits, it brings me joy and satisfaction being able to care for and provide them with assistance.”

Michelle G

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I currently stay in Cape Town and was born in 1963.

I am a compassionate and dedicated care-giver, with experience providing domestic care to the elderly and frail, as well as 11 years childcare experience.

I have also co-owned a business that specialized in the restoration and sales of antique furniture.

In my free time I enjoy doing charity work, cooking and baking, reading, yoga, outdoor activities, theaters and movies, board games, church activities.

Rene

Date of Birth: October 26, 1961

City: Parow, Western Cape

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Gardening, cooking, baking, sewing, knitting and taking long walks

REVIEWS RECEIVED BY CLIENTS

What makes you a good companion?
”I am a people's person. I believe it's a blessing and a privilege to work with the elderly folk. I have empathy and understanding for the elderly who have lost their independence, this is a process which we cannot control.”

Share with me a time when you displayed [one of our company’s values].Capable, honest, attentive, Mindful & Pioneering?
”In all my years providing care to various people, I have showcased most, if not all of the values. I am honest and attentive at all times as I admire transparency. It is especially important when caring for others.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified as a companion?
”I have lots of patience and I am a good listener. I am also physically fit and love taking long walks.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?
”I am excited to give back to my elderly community and also enriched by the stories they have to tell.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?
”I am a very affectionate person whom enjoys long walks on the beach listening to the waves.”

Juliana

Date of Birth: September 28, 1961

City: Cape Town, Western Cape

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Trail & road running, embroidery, cross stitching and birding

What makes you a good companion?
”I am an empathetic, caring, loving, friendly and respectful person. I am compassionate, highly motivated and a good listener and I make nice food! I love animals and I have knowledge of first aid, health and safety which definitely contributes towards being a good companion.”

Share with me a time when you displayed [one of our company’s values].Capable, honest, attentive, Mindful & Pioneering?
I feel I live by all your company values every day by being responsible towards myself and others. I assist an elderly lady living next to me and by helping her I am fully capable of being a Companion and a carer. Being attentive for me is being careful, helpful, trustworthy, friendly, observant and possessing great apathy. As a mindful person, I am assertive and alert. I strongly believe in sharing my love for the elderly people as they are lonely and need to feel loved, appreciated and valued.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified as a companion?
”Taking clients on outings, walks, reading to them, exercising with them, taking them to appointments. I also enjoy taking them shopping, providing massages and having fun with beautifying.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?
”Seniors are the most appreciable people and always accepting of who and what you are. They are very thankful, as well as funny and interesting! I know that I can learn so much about life from them.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?
I cared for my mother who had suffered from Dementia, so I am well experienced in Dementia care. This is where my passion for caring for elderly stems from and where I realised the importance of companionship for our elderly.”

Ameer

Date of Birth: August 30, 1998

City: Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Hiking, going to the beach, running, reading and playing trivia mind games

What makes you a good companion?
I consider myself to be of service to those in need whether it be friends, colleagues or family. I am an enthusiastic young male with an understanding of both EQ and IQ, and use this as my basis to understanding others. I have also completed my thesis on caregiver coaching strategies and feel that this background of research will enhance my experience with the clients.”

Share with me a time when you displayed [one of our company’s values].Capable, honest, attentive, Mindful & Pioneering?
In one instance when I was working at a hospital, I had to assist two clients. It was a bit of a hassle as both clients were on the opposite ends of the hospitals, however, I understood that both required much needed assistance and I used my own initiative to ask assistance from a nurse. Both of my clients were seen to and I even ended up assisting the nurse that helped me with her client. This shows that I am capable and mindful as at the end of the day, all clients were assisted and not left behind.”

In what skills area do you feel most qualified as a companion?
”Being in the occupational therapy industry has definitely increased my skill set. Over the years I have had exposure to many medical conditions that equipped me to provide quality care and companionship.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?
Besides my passion for assisting and being a helping hand to people, I will be able to gain more experience and skills in a setting that offers a diverse background of clients.”

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?
I am currently completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy.

Aletta

Date of Birth: 12 August 1967

City: Port Elizabeth

Languages: English, Afrikaans

Hobbies: I love the outdoors, gardening, and walks in nature.

Personality type: Entertainer: outgoing, spontaneous, and bubbly

What makes you a good companion?

“I have empathy, and I am reliable. My patients are my priority. I do my work right, the first time, on time, every time.”

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

“ I believe that communication is key and just being a listening ear or dedicating your time to someone can work wonders.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“Working with seniors is amazing! A world of experience and knowledge to discover in each and every elderly person.

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

To be included in my patient’s 100th birthday celebration with her family and friends. It was a humbling experience and made me realize how precious life is.

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

“I am a qualified security officer and dog handler.”

Desire

Date of Birth: 14 December 1968

City: Pretoria

Languages: English, Afrikaans & Dutch

Hobbies: I enjoy the outdoors

What makes you a good companion?

“ I believe that everybody needs to be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect, especially the elderly. It is fulfilling to make their lives easier and make them feel special and happy.”

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

“ I am the youngest child and watching my parents grow old was difficult for me, but assisting them in their old age taught me patience and empathy.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“Seniors are so precious, they have learned so much in life and I love having conversations with them.”

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

I enjoy working with children and have Aur Pair experience.”

Francisca

Date of Birth: 05 January 1976

City: Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Baking

What makes you a good companion?

“Being a people person, I love meeting new friends, listening, and communicating whether you are young or old.”

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

“Oh, I had plenty, a good day for me was when issues arose and I could sort it out quickly without any complications, most days are good.”

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

“I'm an energetic and honest person, helping those in need, listening and caring for them is really fulfilling”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I believe I was born to serve and I would be honored to make life a little easier for someone else”

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

“When i do get the time, I love cooking and taking some time to be creative.”

Emmerenche

Date of Birth: 12 February 1969

City: Pretoria, Johannesburg

Languages: Afrikaans & English

Hobbies: Yoga, walking and gardening

 

REVIEWS RECEIVED BY CLIENTS

What makes you a good companion?

“I have a heartfelt passion to care for others and consider it as part of who I am. Growing up on a farm, I had the privilege to witness and assist my mother as a Community Nurse to visit, comfort and care for ill patients. I consider it as part of my DNA to help, care for, and inspire people to make the most out of their time left.”

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

“Elderly, ill and disabled people are my preferred area of work. I am well experienced with brain and sensory stimulation among elders, and love doing simple pedicures and manicures combined with massages using essential oils.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“It excites me to uplift them with my positive energy, and to bring smiles to their faces. I also encourage some freewill exercises like chair yoga and walking (with or without a frame) or take them for a stroll in a wheelchair to smell the roses and breathe in some fresh air. It really is a privilege for me to give back to those who once cared for us!”

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

I love nature, animals and travel.”

Nomathemba

Date of Birth: 09 January 1959

City: Sandton, Johannesburg

Languages: English & Zulu

Hobbies: Going on adventures

What makes you a good companion?

“I have brought up my own children and some of my grandchildren successfully. I looked after my mother after she had a stroke and also helped look after my mother's grandmother during school holidays when I was a teenager., therefore caring for others comes naturally”

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

“I enjoyed the days when I would sit and chat with my mother when she was not well, just the interaction made me feel good as I could see that she was enjoying it.”

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

“Definitely my listening skills and my understanding of what motivates people in all situations, I'm told I speak well and make people happy.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I believe that I will have meaningful conversation with seniors, my maturity will give me the added ability and patience when working with and clients.”

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

“Whilst at college, I worked in an old people's home in the UK for about 3 months during my the summer vacation. I bathed, fed, conversed with them and performed all the things like bed making in the home. therefore it was a dream of mine to assist the elderly”

Stella

Date of Birth: 20th February 1957

City: Westville, Durban

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Going on adventures

 

REVIEWS RECIEVED FROM CLIENTS

What makes you a good companion?

“ I am a people’s person. I believe it is a blessing and privilege to be able to assist those who can no longer help themselves, I follow instructions, I am responsible, faithful honest and an optimistic outlook.”

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

“I believe that everyday is a good day making the clients I assist happy and placing a smile on their faces, showing them the love and care they deserve.”

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

“Definitely my listening skills and my understanding of what motivates people in all situations, I'm told I speak well and make people happy.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I get excited to show them life is good and fair and that someone really does care about their needs and well being.”

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

“People enjoy my company and never wants me to leave, I worked for BIDVEST group in hygiene so cleanliness is a priority for me”

Sandy

Date of Birth: 17th September 1955

City: Ballito, Durban

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Golf

What makes you a good companion?

“ I love keeping conversation and have good general knowledge. I am kind and patient, and would not mind going on excursions.”

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

“I work at a Jeweler store and each time I sell an engagement ring to young and in love couples is the best feeling in the world, it is exciting and gives us all hope for the future

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

“I am a generalist, not scared of hard work and a good problem solver. I deal with the public everyday and am exposed to many different situations that have to be handled tactfully”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“I guess it’s that one day I will be frail and hopefully someone will care for me. They deserve to be treated well and enjoy there retirement years.”

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

“I play golf and I am a coffee mug collector - I collect too many”

Chipo

Date of Birth: 20 July 1973

City: Casa Mia, Pretoria

Languages: Zulu & English

Hobbies: Family time

What makes you a good companion?

l am very patient with the elderly. I have the ability to remain calm, think clearly and provide the best care possible under demanding circumstances. I have the ability to show friendliness towards clients without overstepping boundaries.

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

I assisted a client with dementia and she had a bad day and started taking ironed clothes out of the closet and started throwing them everywhere. I realized that the she was tired of being idle and wanted something to keep her busy. I suggested taking a walk through the garden and her mood changed immediately. She was so happy to go out and get some fresh air and see the blooming flowers. I found pleasure in putting a smile on my her face.

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

Commitment to being present and providing quality care, and being empathetic towards them, just the opportunity to show kindness and respect and celebrating their differences.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“It's fun. I enjoy the stories, experiences and humor of the Seniors l care for. I enjoy making a difference in their lives. It's a great accomplishment and feels highly rewarding, knowing that you have turned what could have been a really difficult day into a great one, full of laughter and fun activities. Working with the elderly gives me a valuable insight into the aging process, and what's to come, giving me an opportunity to think about what matters most to me in life and how l will look after them and myself.”

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

l once took a Managerial role in a Training Company for learners with special needs ( intellectually challenged, bi-polar, physically challenged and short sighted) and l managed to see all learners progress in their different areas of learning.”

Linda

Date of Birth: 6 May 1960

City: Rynfield, Benoni

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Reading and Arts & Crafts

What makes you a good companion?

“My passion for assisting people and making them feel loved and valued. I am very patient and will not make someone feel inadequate for repeating themselves. I am always very respectful, patient and humble and have a passion for working with elderly.”

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

“I view everyday as my best day at work because with a new day there are new and more opportunities to make the present better than the past.”

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

“ I am extremely good with elderly as i find them inspiring. I have a passion for working with people and assisting with care where needed.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“To listen to the inspiring stories and lessons while talking to an elderly person.”

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

“ I want to spread the love of god to people. Bringing joy and hope into others lives.”

Lucy

Date of Birth: 3 February 1993

City: Randburg, Gauteng

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Modelling and Charity

 

What makes you a good companion?

“I always put the need of the person I am spending time with first. I am very patient and can listen to the same story 1 billion times and will not make someone feel inadequate for telling the same story over and over. I love and get attached very easily. I am always very respectful, patient and humble and have a passion for working with elderly.”

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

“Everyday is my best day at work as I am fuelled by passion in companionship for others.“

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

“ I am patient, caring, and attentive to the needs of others. I am a good listener.  I feel comfortable in spending time with someone and making sure all their needs are met.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“What makes me excited about being a companion for elderly is the stories the tell, and the lessons you learn from things they have experienced in life. I also enjoy spending time with elders due to the fact that you feel needed, wanted and appreciated.’’

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

‘‘I do modeling for fun in my spare time. I love giving charity and lending a helping hand. One of favourite places to do charity is at the elderly house in Randfontein. I spend time with the elders and make them feel loved and special. On special occasions I will make them gifts and treat them. Every now and then I play bingo with them for a fun day.’’

Diann

Date Of Birth: 7 August 1960

City: Jukskei Park, Johannesburg

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Writing & drawing

What makes you a good companion?

‘As a Companion, it would be personally fulfilling to care for and to brighten someone's day. I have empathy and patience. I have previous experience in the Medical Health Industry as a Receptionist to various Doctors’ Specialist practices.’’

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

“A disabled bowls competition which gave insight to others capabilities, even with disabilities. Sheer determination and positive thinking of the competitors was so inspirational“

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

“ I am patient, caring, and attentive to the needs of others. I am a good listener.  I have an interest in acquiring knowledge with regards to the position to best utilize.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“ Bringing a happy, caring sense of belonging to the client. Personally, self-fulfilling to be able to assist and care for a client. Learning more and going forward gaining valuable knowledge in various aspects from a client that I would be caring for.’’

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

‘‘I enjoy writing prose and drawing.’’

Elsie K

Date Of Birth: 8 June 1967

City: Rietfontein rand, Pretoria

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Spending time with her grandkids

What makes you a good companion?

Naturally I am a caring person. Ever since I can remember I wanted to help, support, and make the life of others easier. Due to my counseling background, this has taught me to show empathy and understanding to those around me with love and support

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

I am reliable and compassionate”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

“Being able to work with the elderly doesn't feel like work because it is so rewarding. I get to add real value to a person's life and make a difference.  Working with the elderly is a very rewarding career

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

“I use to be a gymnastics judge in my younger days

What personal values are most important to you?

“My personal belief is that I treat people around me as I would want them to treat me. I show passion and kindness to those around me’’

Caroline M

Date Of Birth: 26 February 2000

City: Waterkloof, Pretoria

Languages: English

Hobbies: Running & exercising

What makes you a good Companion?

‘‘I am loving and passionate and enjoy assisting people of all ages

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?

‘‘I find myself being a joyful and bubbly person that can shine my happiness to the elders around me. I am also excited to learn a bit more about lifelong experiences from the elderly while spending time with them’’

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

‘‘I am working towards becoming a professional Sprinter and going to the 2024 Olympic games. My accomplishment is that I’ve obtained a South African Title for the 200m sprint’’

Fun fact?

‘‘I run the 200m sprint regularly’’

What personal values are most important to you?

“My personal values are Financial Security; Loyalty; Honesty and Compassion

Hélène

Date Of Birth: 19 June 1947

City: Plumstead, Cape Town

Languages: English & Afrikaans

Hobbies: Gardening, Baking & Cooking

What makes you a good companion?
By nature, I am a caring person and have been for my entire life. It brings out the best in me to provide assistance, empathy, and love to someone in need of care or simply having someone around.

Your best day at work you've ever had and what made it so good?
I suppose it is difficult to describe a day's work where there is satisfaction, achievement, and happiness all around. You just need to see the positives always.”

What makes you most excited about working with seniors?
”Since I am one myself, I understand what it is like to have help, understanding, and a listening ear

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we don’t know from your resume?
My great sense of intuition, humility, and optimism as you will always find me with a smile.”

What personal values are most important to you?

Love and Compassion