Our Business
Our Chairperson’s thoughts he would like to share
Our Business
Our Chairperson’s thoughts he would like to share
Thabo Mokgatlha CHAIRPERSON, BOARD OF DIRECTORS
“As we reflect on the accomplishments and challenges of the past year, I am filled with gratitude
and pride for the remarkable strides our organisation has made. Each year offers new challenges,
yet our fundamental commitment to saving lives through blood donation remains unwavering.
This report is not merely a collection of statistics; it is a heartfelt celebration of the
extraordinary people who bring our mission to life — our donors, our medical professionals, and the
steadfast support of our Board and management teams.”
‘Serving with Heart’
At the core of our mission is a theme that resonates deeply with all of us — ‘Serving with Heart’. This philosophy emphasises the humanity underpinning our work. It goes beyond merely providing a service; it reflects our commitment to approaching each donation, each interaction, and each decision with empathy, compassion, and care. When we ‘Serve with Heart’, we recognise that we are not just collecting blood; we are supporting lives, families, and communities.
Our donors exemplify this spirit, showing tremendous generosity in their willingness to contribute to a cause that saves lives. Their selflessness reminds us that behind every donation is a story, a person whose life may depend on the very blood given. Furthermore, our leadership and employees exemplify this ethos daily; their skilled hands and dedicated hearts ensure that each donation is collected, processed and delivered safely and efficiently.
Engaging the community: Inclusivity and diversity
This year has seen a significant increase in younger individuals stepping forward to donate, along with a greater diversity within our donor base. Particularly heartwarming is the rise in engagement from black donors, reflecting our ongoing commitment to inclusivity and community representation. We actively embrace this shift, recognising that every individual—regardless of age, background, or circumstance—has the potential to make a difference.
The success of these efforts is tied closely to our innovative approach to communication. We are harnessing the power of modern platforms, including social media and digital channels, to reach younger donors. These efforts will be further amplified by the upcoming launch of our Donor app, designed to simplify the blood donation process and enhance donor communication. This app will serve as a platform where donors can access information, receive reminders about donation drives, and share their experiences, thereby fostering a supportive community around the life-saving act of giving blood.
Safety and availability
An essential part of our commitment to our community is ensuring the safety and availability of blood for all individuals, regardless of background or circumstance. I am very pleased to report that our blood stocks have increased significantly, with group O blood stocks reaching levels up to 15 days.
However, this achievement comes with its own set of challenges, particularly the potential risk of waste if supply exceeds demand for blood. It is imperative that we continue engaging more individuals through targeted campaigns and initiatives to ensure we maintain a healthy balance between supply and demand.
0 blood stocks
Up to 15 days
Safety is paramount in our operations, and we remain vigilant in adhering to best practices. We strive to cultivate an atmosphere of confidence among our donors, reassuring them that every aspect of the donation process is rigorously maintained with care and concern for their wellbeing.
A year of appreciation
In this report, we take this opportunity to express gratitude to everyone involved in our journey this year. Our donors, whose generosity serves as the lifeblood of our organisation, have contributed greatly to our achievements. Their willingness to donate is matched by the unwavering dedication and expertise of our professional employees, who ensure that the entire process is seamless and gratifying for everyone involved.
Honouring and valuing our supporters — from long-time donors to new faces — is essential as we enter this next chapter. We encourage seasoned donors to continue mentoring and guiding new participants into the donation community, creating a culture of support and shared commitment.
“Together we can change the world, one donation at a time.” This sentiment embodies our mission and reminds us that every single donation matters. Each person involved in our efforts is integral to our success.
Innovating for the future
Looking ahead, our focus will be on continually evolving to meet the needs of our community, all while ‘Serving with Heart’. Together, we will forge deeper connections and engagements with stakeholders, including governmental partnerships, to advocate for policies that protect our mission and uphold our ability to save lives.
Pioneering initiatives will centre on our Donor app, which is designed to keep our community connected and informed. Beyond simply encouraging donations, our goal is to foster a sense of belonging, drive engagement, and ultimately create a culture where donating blood becomes a natural part of everyday life. As we navigate the changing landscape of healthcare, technology must be our ally, ensuring we not only reach but resonate with our community.
Education and awareness will continue to be crucial. Many people are unaware of the complexities involved in blood donation and the life-saving impact it has. We must simplify this message, engaging various demographics and sharing the stories that encapsulate our mission. Storytelling will be a vital strategy, as it connects us to the heart of our cause — illustrating the profound impact of each blood donation through real-life experiences.
Governance and accountability
Strong governance is the backbone of our operations. I am proud to report that our governance framework remains robust, ensuring ethical practices and transparency at all levels. We are committed to high standards of accountability as we navigate the inevitable changes and challenges in the landscape of blood services. By preserving our integrity and instilling trust among our community members, we continue to foster lasting relationships that empower our mission.
Closing thoughts
This report serves not only as a reflection of our achievements but also as a roadmap for our future. It is an opportunity for us to renew our commitment to our mission, to the people we serve, and to one another.
As we move forward, let us remain resolute in our resolve to embrace innovation, foster connections, and advocate tirelessly for our cause. Together, we will navigate the challenges ahead with compassion and dedication, fully embracing the theme of ‘Serving with Heart’.
Thank you for your unwavering support as we embark on this life-saving journey together.
Thabo Mokgatlha, CHAIRPERSON, BOARD OF DIRECTORS