lsie Mthimunye works  as a domestic worker   in Moreleta Park, east   of Pretoria. “When I was younger, my parents did not have much money. While I was still at school, I decided to put my studies aside and get a job. I wanted to do this, so I could help my parents –   to make life easier for them. The easiest job to get at that stage was that of a domestic worker.”

“An education is not usually  a prerequisite for a domestic worker, but the ability to read and write will  be an advantage when you are looking for work. Each job is different, because employers like things done a certain way, which is often not the same way that a previous employer wanted. Theft is always a concern to individuals who employ domestic workers. For this reason, people prefer to employ older domestic workers, who have more experience and references from previous employers,” says Elsie.

“My duties generally include keeping the house clean and tidy, and doing the washing and ironing. I don’t live at my place of employment; therefore, I am not required to cook   or look after children. If my employer’s baby is at home, I play with her and keep her busy, but she goes to a crèche most of the time.” Elsie’s working hours are from 07:30 to 15:00, Monday to Friday, and she earns R2 200      per month.

 “Being a domestic worker is not  an easy job. It requires a hard-working person and someone who is fit and strong. Many people think that domestic workers are stupid, but

the truth is that most of us are capable   of doing other jobs. Our only downfall is that we are unable to get qualifications behind us. Qualifications or credentials are very important these days. If you don’t have a certificate, diploma or degree, you don’t have much chance of getting a more exciting job.” Some families send their domestic workers on courses, such as first aid or cooking classes.

 Elsie’s advice to the youth of South Africa is: “Go to school and get   an education. I would not have chosen this career if I had the opportunity  to further my studies. My dream was to have my own business one day, but  I am now putting my two children through university, so I can’t afford to study as well. An education will allow you to have a better future and to follow your dreams.”

 Tabitha, another domestic worker who works for a family in Equestria, says that she enjoys the fact that she can make life easier for her employer. “My employer is a single mother who works full-time and who is very busy. I am grateful that she has given me a job, and I feel honoured that she trusts me with her home and her children.”

 “Being a domestic worker does not have to be seen in a negative light. Although it is hard work, I know that I am helping to make someone else’s life easier and less stressful. That is the most rewarding part of my job. I care for the family I work for very much and I consider them part of my extended family. God has been good to me and has blessed me with a second family.”