Super efficient Auriel proves that 80 is the new 60

Auriel Wittert is a receptionist whose professionalism strikes the right chord with visitors to Elphin Lodge Complex. She is well groomed, bright eyed, attentive and beautifully spoken. She also turned 80 on April 19.

Auriel is among a new breed of people who might be senior citizens according to traditionally accepted definitions, but who certainly are not elderly. Working a demanding, busy full day, she says what she most loves about her job is interacting with people.

Once a resident herself of Elphin Lodge retirement village, she was working in Linbro Park and found the commute to work too tedious during the Gautrain’s construction. “It took one-and-a-half hours to drive 12kms.”

With her late husband then being cared for at Ron Smith Care Centre on the grounds of Elphin Lodge, getting home in time to visit him was becoming increasingly difficult. Then a snippet in the village’s weekly bulletin caught her eye. An assistant was sought to work in the village shop.

She applied but did not get the job. What she was offered instead, was a part-time receptionist position. “We felt that Auriel would be better utilised at our reception and that has proved true. Auriel is incredibly efficient and feisty. She is a most presentable lady who firmly manages the reception with colleague Tanya Switala. Auriel is an asset to our village,” says Helen Petrie, Elphin Lodge Complex Manager.

Auriel started in 2009, and when the full-time receptionist retired five years ago, she was promoted and started working a full day.

Auriel Wittert mans her post with unwavering professionalism.