In the heart of Rafiki Mwema lies a community bound by love, resilience, and the unwavering dedication of its people. Every month, we take a moment to celebrate an individual whose contribution embodies the very spirit of our mission. For December, we are filled with pride and gratitude as we honour our Employee of the Month, the incredible Aunty Khadija.
Khadija is more than a staff member; she is a loyal friend, a mother figure, and a cornerstone of our healing community. Her laughter is infectious, her kindness is a constant, and her impact is felt deeply by every child and colleague she works with. This post is a tribute to her remarkable spirit and the profound difference she makes every single day.
A Master of Therapeutic Care and Connection
One of Khadija’s most powerful gifts is her innate ability to connect with the girls. Having worked at Rafiki Mwema for many years, she has mastered the art of therapeutic parenting, turning its principles into practice with a natural grace. She understands the ‘why’ behind a child’s behaviour, allowing her to respond with empathy and insight. This knowledge has been a pillar in the children’s healing processes and has also helped her colleagues understand and support the girls more effectively.
Her approach is firm yet compassionate, earning her a deep and genuine respect from all the girls, both young and old. She has a rare talent for mending relationships quickly after a misunderstanding, ensuring that connection is always restored. Colleagues describe her as a peacemaker and a peace lover, who skilfully engages children in chores and creative games, fostering a sense of community and fun. Her ability to handle difficult situations with calm authority, such as managing a dramatic family visit while upholding ethical boundaries, showcases her strength and wisdom.
Unwavering Dedication to a Child in Need
Nowhere is Khadija’s commitment more evident than in her devoted care for one of our girls, a child with complex medical needs. Khadija has taken on the responsibility for her health with a seriousness and consistency that is nothing short of inspiring. She has become the leading expert on her medication schedule, liaising with doctors, and ensuring every dose is administered accurately.
This dedication goes far beyond her assigned duties. She wakes up at 4 am to take her on long journeys to her clinics in Nairobi, ensuring they are never late. She has travelled from one hospital to another, advocating for her until her condition stabilised. Even when off-duty or on leave, Khadija makes herself available if she needs a medical check-up. Her detailed reports—both written and oral—have made it easier for the entire team to understand her condition and provide the best possible care. Through this relentless support, Khadija has not only helped stabilise her health but has also given her the feeling of being believed in and cared for, which has been instrumental in her healing.
The Definition of Flexibility and Teamwork
Khadija’s role at Rafiki Mwema is a testament to her incredible flexibility. She expertly balances her duties as a carer in the girls’ house with her responsibilities as a member of the outreach team, conducting home visits for her assigned children. She transitions between these two demanding roles with professionalism and grace, embodying the interconnectedness of our work.
Her commitment to the team is unwavering. She consistently steps in during staff shortages, willingly taking on extra night or day shifts to ensure the girls always receive the highest standard of care. This readiness to help, often on short notice, demonstrates a deep-seated dedication that inspires her colleagues. She is a true team player who is always ready to offer a helping hand, and her positive attitude makes her a joy to work with.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Aunty Khadija
Khadija, you embody the true meaning of ‘Rafiki Mwema’—a loyal friend. Your work is not just a job; it is a passion that you pursue with your whole heart. Your therapeutic insights, your exceptional care for our special girl, and your flexibility have created ripples of positive change throughout our organisation. You have taught us what it means to love fiercely, advocate tirelessly, and lead with kindness.
The girls are thriving, our special girls health has improved monumentally, and our team is stronger because of you. Thank you for your laughter, your dedication, and the countless hours you have given to our children. We are profoundly grateful to have you in our family. Congratulations on being our well-deserved Employee of the Month
