In celebration of its 50th anniversary this year, Tygerberg Hospital in Parow, Cape Town, recently honoured 260 employees for their unwavering commitment to public healthcare at its Long Service Awards Ceremony. The ceremony, which was sponsored by the hospital’s facility board, honoured 49 employees for 40 years of service, 111 for 30 years and 100 employees for 20 years of service.

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness said these employees represent every aspect of the hospital’s operations, from doctors, nurses and allied health professionals to pharmacists, technicians, administrative personnel, artisans, food service workers, porters, cleaners, and support staff. While their responsibilities differ, they share a common purpose — providing compassionate, quality healthcare to the thousands of patients who depend on the hospital each year, the department said.

“As we celebrate 50 years of excellence, we acknowledge that our greatest achievement has never been our buildings or our technology; it has always been our people. Every recipient we honour today has helped write the story of Tygerberg Hospital through their unwavering commitment to our patients, our communities and one another.

“Through your service, you have touched countless lives, strengthened the health system and helped build Tygerberg Hospital into the institution it is today,” Dr Matodzi Mukosi, chief executive, said in his address.

Four decades of compassionate service

For Mary-Anne Bodie, operational nursing manager, reaching four decades of service is a moment of immense pride and gratitude. “Receiving this award is incredibly special. Reflecting on the past 40 years, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served generations of patients and worked alongside colleagues who have become like family. Caring for others has never simply been a profession; it has been a privilege and a calling.”

Three decades of making a difference

For Joyce Mweli, administration clerk, this milestone reflects a lifelong commitment to public service. “Working in public healthcare has taught me that even the smallest act of kindness can make a lasting difference. I am honoured to have spent the past 30 years serving our communities and contributing to the delivery of quality healthcare.”

Twenty years of growing with Tygerberg Hospital

For Steven Goodman, admin officer: porters, the award symbolises two decades of dedication, growth and service. “Tygerberg Hospital has shaped the person I am today. Over the past 20 years, I have been proud to serve this institution, supporting colleagues and contributing in my own way to ensuring that patients receive the care they need. It has been an honour to be part of the Tygerberg Hospital family.”

The awards recognise not only years of employment, but also decades of compassion, resilience, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to public service, the health department said.

Collectively, the recipients have cared for hundreds of thousands of patients, mentored future healthcare professionals, embraced innovation, and contributed to Tygerberg Hospital’s reputation as a centre of excellence in specialised healthcare, teaching, and research, the department said.

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