The Gauteng Department of Social Development Johannesburg Region just hosted a Supervisor's Learning and Support Forum at The Reef Hotel in Johannesburg.
According to department's Social Work Supervisor, Qhawekazi Nkosi, the aim of the forum was to offer better leadership and best support to Social Workers Supervisors and to familiarise them with labour relations policies. Above all to give support to each other and strengthen a good working relationship
Retired Social Work Veteran, Sarah Papi was a guest of honor. Addressing the gathering Papi said, "As a supervisor you must know what you value and value what you know. Johannesburg Region made me what I am today because of the best Supervisors I had. You need to take accountability for those that you are mentoring and supervising". 
"Take your rightful position! Usually when things go right supervisors and managers tend to say 'I' and instead of 'we'. Remember that to be a leader comes with a package, for better or worse. Self-awareness is key in terms of your strengths or weaknesses, you need to know your vulnerability as well. Please refrain from planting rotten seeds of negativity amongst yourselves because it will be your downfall, but rather be the glue that sticks everyone together", she added.
Labour Relations Directorate Senior Admin Office, Tlalamba Manganye, spoke on labour procedures and the rights of employees. The right to be informed in writing of the allegations, the right to be heard, the right to cross examine witnesses, the right to call witnesses, the right to be represented (by recognized union or co-worker only), the right to a fair hearing, the right to an interpreter, the right to appeal against any sanction and right to information to be introduced in evidence. 
"Remember as a supervisor, when you discipline your subordinates come up with corrective measures. Discipline is not a punishment. Familiarize yourselves with labour laws to ensure you take correct decisions", concluded Manganye.