At a recent meeting, the dedicated team at Tutela Family Care Secunda shared the significant challenges and fulfilling rewards of their work in social services. Often misunderstood and underappreciated, social work requires unyielding dedication to helping vulnerable individuals and families navigate emotionally complex and difficult situations. The team, comprising of Miss Florentia Moloi (Social worker), Miss Chemondre Prinsloo (Social worker), Miss Shamillah Wilkenson (Social auxiliary worker), and Mrs. Ronel McIntyre (Office manager), emphasized how their work is far more than paperwork or quick fixes. Each day brings unpredictable challenges, from urgent child protection cases to impactful community outreach programs. Their resilience, empathy, and steadfast commitment drive meaningful change and strengthen the fabric of the community.
Miss Chemondre Prinsloo, originally from Humansdorp in the Eastern Cape, has been with Tutela for nearly four years. She described social work as a calling shaped by her upbringing, inspired by her parents’ kindness and community compassion. “Being a social worker is tough, and most people don’t understand what we do—but I love it,” she shared. For Chemondre, social work is more than a career; it is a way to bring hope and healing to others while empowering individuals and families.
Miss Shamillah Wilkenson, a social auxiliary worker from Kimberly in the Northern Cape, joined the organization 10 months ago. Her role in early intervention services has deepened her sense of empathy, accountability, and collaboration. Shamillah is passionate about improving community well-being and hopes to eventually focus on prison reform, helping inmates reintegrate into society as positive contributors. “Passion and purpose fuel my desire to create lasting change,” she expressed.
Miss Florentia Moloi, a social worker from Nigel in Eastern Gauteng, was driven to her profession by a commitment to supporting individuals, families, and communities. She joined Tutela in July 2022. She believes in the idea that “it takes a village to raise a child” and works tirelessly to empower families and foster resilience. Her goal is to provide individuals with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions, creating a ripple effect that uplifts both families and the broader community.
Mrs. Ronel McIntyre, the office manager who has been with Tutela for around 4 years, ensures the organization operates smoothly. Since relocating to Secunda from Randburg in 2016, she has become an integral part of the team. Drawing from her diverse professional background and her deep-rooted passion for people, Ronel focuses on streamlining processes and supporting the team’s mission. Her upbringing, influenced by her mother’s 40-year teaching career and her aunt’s work in social services, instilled in her a strong commitment to community care.
At the heart of the organization’s efforts is a dedicated leadership team. Reverend Hannes Reinecke, as Chairperson, provides strategic direction, while Pastor Hein Van Heerden oversees employee wellness. Treasurer, Mr Jan Badenhorst manages the organization’s finances with transparency, and Deputy Chairperson Pastor Francois Van der Merwe, along with board member Mr. PJ Van Zyl, contributes valuable insights to foster collaboration and effective governance.
The team’s stories illustrate the vital role of social workers in creating lasting change, dispelling misconceptions, and promoting resilience. Their work involves addressing immediate crises while striving for long-term solutions, preserving family structures, and building stronger communities.
The unwavering dedication of Tutela Family Care Secunda ensures it’s mission— “Caring brings hope”—remains a reality, creating a lasting impact in the lives of individuals and families.
You can contact us on 079 310 2599 or tutela.secunda@gmail.com
