Today we introduce Rushana Slarmie, Head Office Administration Coordinator and Skills Development Facilitator. Rushana’s portfolio consists of the management of Head Office facilities, regulatory compliance for B-BBEE and SETA; the facilitation of training & development and support to the AMS Executive Team. Here’s a look into her world …
How long have you been with AMS? “I started at AMS in 2007 as the Cape Town Base Administrator. In 2008, I moved to the Public Relations Department. In 2011, I did a lateral move to the National Operations Department and later resigned in that year. I returned to AMS in 2015 and now four years later, still happily employed by AMS”.
Tell us about yourself. “I was born and raised in Cape Town. After completing high school, I pursued my interest in computer studies. I completed my CompTIA A+ certification. At the start of 2008, I spend four years completing my National Diploma in Public Relations Management part-time with the support of my colleagues and family. I also pursued other short courses since 2011 for further self-development.”
Were you in any other trade before? “I was previously employed by Telkom but doing much of the same thing, planning, organising, coordinating and controlling.”
Why did you choose to join the AMS? “I believe that when you first make the decision to look for employment, you can never be too sure what awaits you. However, when I first walked into AMS, it felt right, I was comfortable, everyone who walked by greeted with a smile and appeared to be very friendly. I was also greeted by Sizeka Mvunge, Cape Town Base Receptionist back then, who politely ushered me to the Base Manager, Ashwin Krishna’s office. I knew that I wanted to be part of an organisation that made a difference in the lives of many. I wanted to be part of a culture that aligned itself with the values of the organisation and I wanted to feel like I could make a positive contribution to the work place and yes, I wanted to fly in the helicopter. I officially started on the 20th of August 2007 and the rest they say is history.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “It would probably be how to change or repair a cellphone screen. It is absolutely ridiculous how much they charge you to repair your cellphone screen. The other skill is to fly an aircraft, obviously! I work for the Air Mercy Service.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Absolutely nothing, yes right, I wish!
I am always busy with something, cooking, cleaning or busy planning some family activity. I want to say exercise but who am I fooling. I do enjoy hiking and running but I haven’t done any of that in a while.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I sing like Celine Dion, just kidding. I am really an open book.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “Every day I am presented with new challenges, I enjoy my working environment and am fortunate to be surrounded by a great team who makes my job interesting and keeps me on my toes.”
What is on your bedside table? “Nothing, I don’t like clutter.”
If you could have dinner with five famous people from history, who would they be? “Prophet Muhammed (Peace Be Upon Him), Queen Elizabeth, Razia Sultana, Fatima Meer, Nelson Mandela (Peace Be Upon Him).”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “Can you organise a helicopter trip?”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “When I married my best friend, Nathier Karriem.”
What was your first thought when you woke up this morning? “What do I make for Suhoor (pre-dawn meal before fasting)?”
What is your greatest indulgence? “Pineapple and sweet melon.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “My family.”
What animal best represents you and why? “I think a Panda bear because they so cute and they only attack humans out of irritation. It takes a long time before I get irritated though.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “There are moments in your life that there are no words, but it’s just a bad day and not a bad life.”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Look at those below you but not those above you, because you will become ungrateful – Prophet Muhammed (Peace Be Upon Him).”
