Correctional services employees recognised and celebrated for their remarkable weight loss achievements.
Employees at Kgosi Mampuru were honoured with weight loss awards at a ceremony held in the Kgosi Mampuru II Management Area. Participants were commemorating their successful completion of the 2024 weight loss challenge, having reached their weight loss goals within a three-month period.
The weight loss challenge began in February and concluded in April 2024. Every participant received a weight loss certificate, but only three were crowned winners of the challenge.
“Every year, an Integrated Employee Health and Wellness Programme is conducted nationally. It includes the launch of a weight loss programme, with progress reports mandated on a quarterly and monthly basis,” said Ms. Kekana, the AC Director.
“Out of the 147 employees, only 39 took part in the race. I instructed the office to invite all employees as a means of motivation,” added Kekana.
Emmanuel, Khoza the Area Commissioner, participated in the program. In an exclusive interview with Tshwane Bulletin, he elaborated on his interest in the weight loss challenge.
“I was motivated by the fact that I’m their leader, and I must be able to lead by example, and also make sure that I talk about employee health and wellness. Also, make sure that we have a work-life balance, and also make sure that we have a healthy workforce.”
Khoza added that he believes that they need to have a healthy mind in a healthy body and that the program is working. Our officials are competing to lose weight, and most of the participants are female.
Linda Hlophe, a retired member of the Department of Correctional Services, is coaching the weight loss participants.
He was genuinely excited about coaching his employees, having eagerly volunteered for the role.
“Your health is very important; I also say that it is all up to you about your lifestyle. Sometimes we do this to avoid unnecessary diseases,” said Hlophe the coach.
The number one winner, Melita Lamola, shared her feelings after her victory. As she rose to receive her reward, the other participants cheered for her, demonstrating her remarkable consistency throughout her weight loss journey.
“I’m truly proud of myself. I wasn’t sure I’d come out on top, but seeing the visible change is truly rewarding,” Lamola said.
“I was not happy with my weight, and I lacked confidence, especially when wearing clothes. I just wanted to regain my confidence,” she added.
Participants have expressed their commitment to continuing to take care of their health and participating in the weight loss challenge. This will contribute to monitoring their healthy lifestyle.
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