Weskus Distrik’s ‘fountain of youth’ keeps on bubbling, developing a flow of talent for the future. Weskus is particularly pleased with the progress of intern Eswillethe Fransman.
After matriculating at Vredendal High School, Eswillethe completed a Batchelor’s degree in Commerce (B Com Management Science) with an emphasis on Financial Management from Stellenbosch University. She is gaining extensive practical experience at Weskus as she rotates between CFO Dr Johan Tesselaar’s Finance team. Currently, she is working with the experienced Pedro April and Nathan Cloete in the Asset Management and VAT departments.
Eswillethe, what encouraged you to join the public sector?
A combination of personal values, career goals and a desire to contribute towards society. In truth, joining the public sector was not my early goal but grew on me as I studied.
What clinched the idea of you deciding on the public sector?
Several factors resonated with me, each impacting on service delivery:
- The need for good governance where strong leadership and governance structures are prioritised in decision-making processes, and
- The need for sound financial management to ensure that resources are effectively budgeted for and allocated in the best way possible.
Sound financial management is more than a discipline because the aggregation of innovation, collaboration, partnerships, skills and experience, results in economic stability.
A big factor in joining the public sector was a bursary from Weskus Distrik which enabled me to achieve my degree. I appreciated their confidence in my potential. I also wanted to find a way to give back to the community.
Relative to Weskus Distrik?
Our record of good governance speaks for itself, but Weskus is much more than their 13 consecutive clean audits. I have learned how Finance can play a lead role in innovation. For example, Finance also manages our strategic brand development which is geared to attract investment into our region to stimulate economic development, job creation and improved service delivery. Partnerships with the private sector are vital.
To attract investment and funding for infrastructural development, a municipality needs a solid record of governance and stability, and I can play a part in this as I develop my skills and understanding.
What can municipalities do to attract young talent like you?
First, they need to appeal to certain aspirations of younger people. One of the ways to do this is to highlight the meaningful impact that one can have on improving the lives of communities.
Second, graduates need to associate with the municipal brand in a positive way. Weskus Distrik’s brand values are Solid, Aspirational, Inclusive, and Action-focused. These values must be communicated.
Talent can only flourish in a receptive environment, so a commitment to mentorship, training and development are all important qualifiers to attract young talent. Weskus is obsessed with people development.
Young professionals are also tech-savvy. Municipalities must be willing to change and embrace technology and be open to learning from the younger generation.
Overall, young graduates are drawn to employers with ethical values, transparent practices, and a culture of accountability. It’s really about a municipality being clear on what they stand for and communicating their values and performance so that they can connect with graduates looking for what they have to offer.
Municipalities need to see themselves as brands which translates into a talent brand.
Eswillethe Fransman
Intern
Finance Department
Weskus Distrik.
10177 (022) 433 8700
Is the Emergency number for the Fire and Medical Services within the West Coast District.
Is die Noodnommer vir die Brandweer- en Mediesedienste binne die Weskus Distrik.
