The ability to devote himself to honesty, integrity, and always striving to go beyond the call of duty have seen Uitenhage social worker Unathi Filita being named among the country’s best public servants for 2020.
Filita, 40, is among five individuals vying for top honours in the annual Integrity Icon awards run by the Accountability Lab.
The awards recognise the most exemplary civil servants in the departments of health, social development, home affairs, and trade and industry.
The overall winner will be announced at an event in Johannesburg on December 5.
Filita was nominated by members of the public after he managed to secure employment for 100 youths at the Volkswagen plant.
He said that in his numerous engagements and dialogues with communities and families he had found there was a serious unemployment problem in the area and had approached Harambe, an organisation that facilitates training young people, and prepares them for work opportunities.
“I was not expecting an award for this, but it feels good because society always finds fault with government employees, but some of us do our best to honour those Batho Pele principles and serve our communities.
“All I wanted to achieve with this job was to help, even if it is one family.
“So to be able to help 100 young people, for me, that is what is important,” Filita said.
KwaNobuhle resident Nobathembu Botha, 25, is among those who benefited from Filita’s intervention.
She is the only one in her family who has a job.
“My life has changed. I am able to put food on the table and take care of myself and I am also able to put some money away.
“Working at VW has exposed me to so many opportunities and I see that if I work hard there is room for growth and maybe permanent employment.
“Without Bhut’ Unathi’s work and drive I would not have had this opportunity.”
Phelokazi Rodriguez said she had been unable to continue her studies after passing matric, but Filita had restored her dignity.
“We are responsible members of society now, and we are growing at the plant,” she said.
“I have learnt how to stand up for myself and how to work with other people.
“Also being in a working environment generally has helped me develop my communication skills and understand what is expected of an employee.
“I am happy he has won this award. He deserves it.”
Social development MEC Siphokazi Lusithi congratulated Filita on the accolade and said she noted his efforts of going beyond the call of duty.
“We wish that his actions will not just inspire those about him but society generally,” Lusithi said.
One of Filita’s colleagues, Nozuko Msizi, described him as one of the most dedicated public servants she had ever worked with.
“He overstretches himself in assisting those in need and even helps non-funded organisations to get sponsorships.
“He is a hard worker and wants to see young people taking advantage of all the opportunities that are available.
“He deserves this recognition,” Msizi said.
Filita and the other four winners, Sarah Dlamini, Zodwa Ntuli, advocate Constance Moitse and Dr Sadna Balton, are also in the running to win the People’s Choice Award.
Heraldlive
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