National Culture Institute Honours Long-Serving Staff
Sixty-seven employees of the Seychelles National Institute for Culture, Heritage and the Arts were yesterday recognised for their years of dedication and commitment to the institution.
The employees who have contributed over 20 years of service to the cultural sector have made invaluable contributions to preserving, promoting and enhancing Seychelles’ rich cultural heritage.
They were honoured during a ceremony held at the Espace Bar and Café.
The institute’s secretary general, David Andre, commended the employees as the institute’s greatest assets in supporting the institution’s mission in maintaining the vibrancy of Seychelles’ cultural traditions, arts and heritage for future generations.
“Your contributions have played a crucial role in shaping and advancing the Seychelles National Institute for Culture, Heritage and the Arts into what it is today.
“As we continue to evolve and face new challenges, it is vital that we invest in policies that support the recruitment, retention and the development of exceptional talent. Your commitment, diverse perspectives and innovative spirit are key to our ongoing success and growth,” Mr Andre said.
Mr Andre urged the employees to draw upon their collective strength to embrace new opportunities, towards greater achievements.
Awardees were presented with a token of appreciation, namely, a shield, gifts and cash.
Awardees recognised for 20 to 24 years of service are as follows; Najoie Philoe, Cecile Kalebi, May-Paule Louise, Pierre Joseph, Jenny Saminadin, Nigel Henriette, Vivienne Croisée, Benoit Julius, Urny Mathiot, Caroline Pierre, Raymonde Victor, Marie-France Cedras and Marylyn Henrie.
Those awarded for 25 to 29 years of service are; Guy Emilie, Nathasia Volcère, Marivonne Basset, Gerald Luc, Rose-May Francourt, Berthilde Belle, Christianne Albert, Julienne Dodin, Thérèse Jeremie, Natasha Figaro, Effnane Quatre, Judith Anacoura, Geralda Pierre, Marthane Jean, Catherine Michel, Beryl Ernesta, Laura Antat, Guiditta Omath, Lyvia Renaud, Mervin Lajoie, Lindy Labonte and Anita Malvina.
Employees who have served between 30 to 34 years who were recognised are; Merna Crea, Antoine Souris, Anne-Marie Robert, Beryl Ondiek, Julienne Barra, Alex Rath, Sun Xiaoju Lownam, Frank Agathine, François Victor, Marie Sally, Daniela Rose, AnneMarie Banane, Marguerita Alcindor and Marie-José Kilindo.
Seven employees were rewarded for 35 to 39 years of service. They are; Berthilda Walter, Christiane Domingue, Jeanne Pothin, Camille Azemia, Erica Franchette, Jimmy Savy and Mosianne Jeremie.
A group of six employees were recognised for 40 to 45 years of service. They are; Bella Rose, Anne Dorasamy, Marie Celine Radegonde, Nadette Octave, Gabriel Essack and Madie Victor.
Ms Octave started her career as a secretary at La Bastille at just 18 years old. After some years she was transferred to the museum where she worked as a museum assistant, and was again transferred to the Archives department as an Archives assistant.
“It is a major accomplishment for me, despite the ups and downs, I am satisfied with the award,” Ms Octave said.
“I have been passionate about my work, and despite all the challenges, I have overcome them,” she added.
Two of the longest-serving housekeepers were also awarded. They are; Marie-Celine Henriette and Marie-France Simeon.
Additionally, the organisation paid tribute to staff members who have retired this year, and last year, following years of service. They are; Stella Mussard, Lucille Etienne, Sybil Labrosse, Marie-France Simeon, Miera Savy, Guy Belle and Jean-Claude Mahoune.
Permanent secretary for Culture, Cecile Kalebi, noted that since the establishment of the Culture department in the 1970s, there was yet to be such a ceremony to recognise the countless staff who are instrumental to the department’s work.
The institution currently employs some 250 staff.
Courtesy: Laura Pillay (Nation.sc)