After more than two decades of serving workers through education, training and advocacy, Buffalo City metro employee Wendy Gidana has been recognised with a prestigious national excellence award, a milestone she says has inspired her to aim even higher.
The award recognises her outstanding contribution as the provincial education officer for the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (Nehawu), where Gidana has spent the past 20 years equipping shop stewards and members with the knowledge to defend their workplace rights.
Speaking to Go!, Gidana said the recognition was both humbling and motivating.
“Recognition by your peers and employer is always motivating.
“It has motivated me to lift the bar even higher and achieve more,” Gidana said.
Although employed by Buffalo City metro, she explained that her responsibilities extend far beyond the municipality.
“My scope of operation is wider than the BCM.
“As the Nehawu provincial education officer, I have a responsibility to offer training and education interventions to all Nehawu shop stewards and members across the length and breadth of the province.”
Gidana said the award was the culmination of many years of service within the union movement.
Her journey began as a shop steward at the SA Library for the Blind before volunteering in the Rhodes University branch office.
She later served as the Max Madlingozi regional administrator and provincial administrator of Nehawu, experiences that ultimately shaped her career.
Driven by a passion for justice, Gidana said her daily interactions with workers facing unfair treatment continue to inspire her.
“My daily interaction with members who do not receive justice and fairness in their workplaces has driven me to sharpen my skills so that I can challenge such injustices whenever I can.
“Excellence is not an option in my line of duty, but a prerequisite.”
Gidana credited former and current Nehawu leaders, veterans, colleagues and mentors for helping shape her journey.
Reflecting on the challenges of her career, she said every workplace presents obstacles, but success depends on how people respond to them.
“If you have a zeal for your work, challenges should not be an impediment to your development.”
Gidana also praised her colleagues for their unwavering support.
“I am fortunate to have colleagues who share the same commitment and ethics regarding union work.
“They have assisted me in different ways to achieve this accolade.”
Looking ahead, she hopes to leave a lasting legacy by empowering every union member with the knowledge and confidence to stand up for their rights.
“After more than two decades in the union and now serving as the provincial head of the education service centre, my goal is to leave every member of the union being able to stand for their rights in their workplaces.”
Gidana encouraged young professionals to value perseverance and continuous self-improvement.
“The youth of today must understand that shortcuts will not get anyone anywhere.
“Lifelong learning, loyalty to your calling and personal discipline are key ingredients for growth and development. Embrace continuous learning, adapt to change, and always seek innovative and positive solutions to complex challenges.””
She dedicated the award to the people who have stood by her throughout her career.
“I wish to thank the Nehawu leadership, members, colleagues, my mentors and, most especially, my family for supporting me throughout my career and this achievement.”
Her national recognition stands as a testament to the impact of dedicated public service and lifelong commitment to empowering workers across the Eastern Cape.
