The footsteps of mom

This is an uplifting and very human story about how Angeline ‘Lindie’ Frans, who worked at Weskus Distrik for 28 years, inspired her son Karel to join Weskus and rise to Manager: Internal Audit, a pillar of Weskus Distrik’s clean governance track record.

Lindie, let’s start with your story.

I started in August 1980 as a cleaner and tea maker. My first wage was R 7.50 per week. The offices were located across the road from “Parratjies” , a local fish store in Moorreesburg. The mayor was “Oom Boy Burger” and Chris Gunter was the Accounting Officer. He was more than a boss but a father figure as well. He always said that his tea and cleaning staff, along with the road workers, were the most important employees to him.

If his cup of tea wasn’t on his desk, he would come looking for me. Not to micromanage, but out of concern if I was at work and okay.

You then moved to the new building at 58 Long Street? Yes, we moved to our new home. The name changed from District Council to Regional Services Council, and then to West Coast District Council. I worked under Accounting Officers Chris Gunter and Wessel Rabetts for 28 years.

When did you know it was time to retire?

When, from the upper kitchen, I could recognise exactly who was coming up the stairs by their footsteps. I had learned to recognize everyone’s steps, including who was using the upper floor toilets. It was either Buks, our CFO, Wilhelm (Director Community Services), or Mr. Gunter (Accounting Officer). Later, Wessels who succeeded Mr Gunter.

Good memories?

When all staff would meet after hours on Fridays in the staff room, and we’d have some refreshments. It was a highlight – we were like a family, and we laughed a lot, but we worked hard.

And the best of all was our year-end Christmas meal with our Council members. After dinner, us ladies could choose which day we wanted off for a special shopping day, as appreciation for our excellent service throughout the year.

Good memories!

Thank you, Lindie. Special times! Let’s move onto your son Karel who you inspired to build a career at Weskus Distrik. Karel, tell us about how your mom’s time here led you to Weskus.

Mom played a big role in me working at Weskus Distrik. Her stories always made a strong impression on me. Hearing about her experiences and friendships inspired me to join one day. I feel a deep connection to the municipality, knowing that I’m continuing a legacy that she was so proud of. Her pride in her work as a tea maker and cleaner has been a guiding influence in my career and I’m committed to playing my role in Weskus Distrik growing from strength to strength.

Karel, what would you like to say about your mom?

My mom taught me the importance of being humble, hardworking and kind. Watching her work tirelessly each day showed me the value of perseverance and dedication. Her positive attitude – even in the most routine of tasks – inspires me to always do my best and to treat others with respect.

Her influence has shaped the man that I am today.

Karel Frans
Manager: Internal Audit
Weskus Distrik.