Pieter van Vuuren knows the City’s recreational centres like the palm of his hand. After 36-years of dedicated service to the City, at the end of March he will leave behind a rich legacy. Born and raised in Johannesburg, Van Vuuren — Operations Manager for Citizen Engagements and Community Outreach Programmes — joined the City on 1 June 1990 after working as a teacher.

He began as a temporary staff member helping learners with homework at recreation centres and quickly became Recreation Officer, Senior Recreation Officer and later centre head.

He served at several facilities including Hillbrow, Kenilworth and Braamfontein recreation centres, where he focused on improving facilities and investing in staff development. Many colleagues advanced under his guidance, including team members who grew into supervisory roles after receiving training opportunities.

Van Vuuren moved to The Palace in Hillbrow as Marketing and Communications Coordinator for Sport and Recreation. He was promoted to Operations Manager and served as Acting Regional Manager before transferring to Stakeholder Management, working in Community Communication, Marketing, and Tourism Promotion.

Throughout his career, he remained committed to creating growth opportunities for others. He ensured that the employees who received training through Augmented Field Service Unit take on vacant duties, hoping they could eventually be absorbed into permanent positions.

Among his many highlights was a Women’s Day event and fashion show where Winnie Madikizela-Mandela was meant to be the master of ceremonies. Although she had to travel overseas, she sent a heartfelt letter that was read by her daughter at the event. Van Vuuren also recalls meeting former presidents Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki.

In retirement, Van Vuuren looks forward to spending time with his mother, travelling to Cape Town, and visiting family along the Garden Route.

His message to colleagues is simple and sincere: “Keep going with your head held high.”

Written by Brümilda Swartbooi