Shanoo Govender

Joan with Shanoo Govender, Reshma Singh, Graham Stewart, Ivan Baard and Kogi Govender

Dearest, dearest Joan

Hey girlfriend – where do I begin? Your enthusiasm and energy and passion for teaching and guiding and your never-say can’t attitude can never be found anywhere else. Your great sea of knowledge and keen intellect makes you are a giant among giants. I am so blessed to know you and to have worked with you.  You are a source of inspiration, nudging us ever so gently to realise the potential that we have within.  I simply cannot imagine DUT without Joan Conolly.  As you ride off into the sunset, leaving us mere mortals behind, I am sure that you are just girding your loins for tackling even bigger projects - and playing with your delightful grandson.  That active mind of yours will never retire – thank God! 

Joan – I remember the times that we shared in our new offices in Staff development with great warmth – it certainly was the best years of my stay at DUT.  And your teaching sessions at Bot Gards – who can ever, forget those glorious moments??  Joan you have left an indelible mark in my heart and I remember you with the greatest fondest.  You always gladly shared your ideas and gave me the courage to carry on in a tough environment.  It certainly was the best of times and the worst of times…. but we endured, because we could freely vent with each other.  Joan, after any workshop that you facilitated, I left there exhilarated and empowered.  You certainly restored my faith in being at DUT.   I just want to say Joan that you leave me in awe – whenever I hear you speak I am amazed at the clever way that you say things, the particular phrases that you use, always praising, seldom ‘scolding’, never demeaning.  I often speak to my girls about what a truly a remarkable person you are and I am so much better for having known you.  You will certainly be one of the top ten women to be invited to my last supper!  I feel very emotional at the thought of you retiring – although I don’t often speak to you – just to know that you are there, is comforting.   Please remember to keep in contact and visit when you can. 

God Bless you in all that you plan to do in your days ahead. I wish you well in all your new journeys. May Lord Ganesha shine His divine light on you, guiding you always.  Love, hugs and blessings:

From Shanoo (031 208 4039).

September 2011