VVM Newsletter: The Resilience Edition
This year has been a continuous reminder that resilience is a fundamental part of life. Just as nature endures the challenges of winter to bloom again in spring, so do we, as individuals and as a community, overcome adversity to thrive.
Resilience is more than just surviving tough times, it is about thriving in the face of adversity. As South Africans, we are no strangers to challenges. From economic shifts to social change, our country has a long history of adapting and standing tall in the face of hardship. We take pride in our ability to rise above challenges, to find strength in community, and to keep moving forward with determination.
At VVM, resilience is woven into the fabric of our daily operations. It’s seen in how our team members tackle difficult tasks, how we continuously innovate in response to industry shifts, and how we strive to support our clients in overcoming financial burdens. This newsletter highlights stories of resilience within our company and beyond, showing how we, together, push boundaries and rise to the occasion.
Dear VVM Community,
Resilience is at the heart of what it means to be South African. It’s in the spirit of people waking up at 4 a.m. to commute to work, despite the challenges of transport and distance. It’s in the way communities come together during difficult times, offering support to one another, and the strength to keep moving forward. We see resilience everywhere, from the bustling city streets to the quiet rural landscapes, where people face their challenges with dignity, determination, and hope.
At VVM, we are proud to embrace and celebrate this resilience. It is a quality we see in our teams every day. People from all walks of life, showing up, working hard, and pushing through obstacles, both big and small. This resilience is the foundation of our culture, the reason we can serve our clients and debtors so effectively. We don’t just work for ourselves; we work for each other, for our families, and for the communities we are a part of.
There is an African proverb that I feel captures this spirit perfectly: "The axe forgets, but the tree remembers." This proverb reminds us that the scars we carry from hardship shape who we are, but they also build strength and wisdom. At VVM, we see these qualities every day in the dedication of our people. We stand resilient, and that resilience keeps us moving forward—together.
Resilience is what drives our success, and we are proud to celebrate it at VVM.
Warm regards,
Karin Van De Venter
Chairman of the Board
At VVM, we recognise that resilience comes in many forms, one of which is the celebration of our rich, diverse heritage. On Heritage Day, we gathered in our offices to honour the vibrant cultures that make up our team. From traditional outfits to shared stories of history and identity, we came together to reflect on the strength we draw from our roots.
Our team dressed in cultural attire, sharing the traditions and stories that make each of us unique yet united in our resilience. It was a day filled with pride, colour, and unity, reinforcing that despite our different backgrounds, we are all working together to build a brighter future for ourselves and for South Africa.
With the support of the entire VVM team, our library has transformed into a hub of knowledge, embodying the spirit of being exceptional in all that we do. The contributions of our team members, fuelled by VVM's commitment to excellence, have turned this initiative into a collective endeavour, showcasing the passion and drive that make us stand out in our industry.
The VVM Library stands as a testament to our dedication to continuous improvement and personal development. As we exchange ideas and share the wealth of knowledge within these pages, we reinforce the values that make us a cut above the rest.
The motto "Better Than the Rest" is not just a tagline; it's a call to action.
Our library embodies this ethos by providing a space where our staff can strive for greatness, push boundaries, and surpass expectations. Each book on our shelves becomes a stepping stone towards personal and professional excellence. In the collaborative spirit of VVM, we invite all team members to actively participate in this initiative. Together, let's continue to empower minds and uphold the VVM legacy of excellence.
Happy reading!
By Tabetha Van Der Walt VVM
Chief People Officer
Michael's journey at VVM is a remarkable testament to dedication, hard work, and continuous self-improvement. Starting in December 2012, Michael has climbed the ranks from a trainee to the Call Centre Manager, earning several promotions along the way. His story celebrates impressive professional growth and also about personal development, passion, and leadership.
The Early Days: From Trainee to Top Collector
Michael began his career at VVM in December 2012 as a trainee. His exceptional performance quickly set him apart, leading to a promotion in April the following year to an Active Learning Coach, which is similar to that of a facilitator in training.
Michael’s dedication and ability to achieve targets were evident early on. He became the top collector for four out of the 13 months he served as an agent, even hitting targets while being assigned to other departments.
Rising Through the Ranks
In 2015, Michael was promoted to Team Leader for the inbound teams. His leadership skills and adaptability shone through, leading to another promotion to Admin Manager. His tenure in this role lasted only six months, as his superiors recognised his exceptional capabilities and promoted him to Call Centre Manager in January.
As Call Centre Manager, Michael oversees 131 agents and seven key managers. His leadership style is a blend of various approaches, ensuring that he can steer the team effectively while also being approachable and supportive. "I prefer to run the ship, show how it's done, and do the job simultaneously," Michael explains.
Balancing Challenges and Motivation
The role of Call Centre Manager is not without its challenges. Michael describes the environment as fast-paced, requiring quick decision-making and adaptability. Despite the pressures, his motivation stems from his commitment to his team. "If I don't show up, I disappoint 138 people," Michael says. This sense of responsibility drives him to maintain high standards and ensure his team's success.
The Importance of Continuous Learning
Michael is a strong advocate for continuous learning and personal development. He is currently pursuing a BSc in Information Technology, a field he is passionate about. This academic pursuit complements his professional role, allowing him to bring a unique perspective to his work.?
"While you're working, please go back to school. It improves your skills, how you see things, and helps you personally and professionally."
In his spare time, Michael enjoys coding and programming, skills he believes are essential for staying relevant in today's technological landscape. His ability to code allows him to create his reports and troubleshoot issues independently, reducing unnecessary reliance on others and ensuring efficiency.
A Deep Connection with VVM
Michael’s loyalty to VVM is rooted in a deep sense of belonging and respect for the company. Describing VVM as the "University of Debt Collection," he feels that the skills and knowledge he has acquired here are unparalleled.?
"I belong here. This is my home"
His commitment to VVM is reinforced by the company's supportive environment, which he believes is crucial for employee satisfaction and retention.
Future Ambitions
Looking ahead, Michael aims to become a General Manager with expertise in both IT and debt collection. His ambition is to be a jack of all trades, capable of fixing problems and coding his solutions. This comprehensive understanding of various aspects of the business will enable him to make informed decisions and lead effectively.
Michael's journey at VVM is a powerful story of perseverance, growth, and leadership. His commitment to continuous learning, passion for technology, and dedication to his team make him a role model for others. As he continues to strive for excellence, Michael’s story inspires others to pursue their goals with determination and resilience.
This year, VVM embraced resilience in every aspect of our operations. From dressing up for Heritage Day to celebrating our top performers, every event reflected the resilience and strength of our people. We have taken pride in highlighting those who go above and beyond, showcasing their dedication to the company, clients, and each other.
Our Resilience Day brought together teams to celebrate the strength we all share. Through challenging times, our employees have continued to show up, work hard, and make a difference. This celebration of resilience is not just a one-day event but a reflection of our culture throughout the year.
A special highlight goes to our VVM Call Centre Leadership Team, whose unwavering commitment and guidance play a crucial role in driving the success of our operations. These leaders exemplify resilience every day, ensuring that our teams are supported, motivated, and empowered to excel in their roles. Their leadership has been instrumental in fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration, and we are proud to celebrate them.
Have you visited our New Website and Self-Help Portal
We're excited to unveil our new website, designed to make it easier for debtors to access the resources they need. With features like a live chat, self-help portal, and WhatsApp line, we are committed to being as accessible as possible. Our goal is to empower our debtors with the information they need to take control of their financial freedom.
The VVM Self-Help Portal is a 24/7 resource that allows debtors to easily access your account information and financial status. Here's how it works:
Visit our website to explore these features and more.
Let us keep the theme of resilience at the forefront of our minds in the coming months. Resilience is what keeps us moving forward, adapting to new challenges, and growing stronger with each experience. It is the quality that defines us as individuals, as a company, and as a nation.
As we continue our journey together, let us reflect on the ways we can nurture resilience in ourselves and in each other. Whether through personal growth, professional development, or community support, resilience will be the key to unlocking new possibilities and achieving our goals.
Together, we will continue to thrive, empowered by our resilience.