After a decade as QASA’s trusted and reliable driver, based in Johannesburg, the retirement of Jacob Maboa truly feels like the end of an era. Appointed in 2011after working as a driver for House Otto Self Help Centre in Kempton Park, Jacob was based in Edenvale at the David Lewis Lodge.
He was the driver for the QASA executives who travelled to the region on business, as well as the members and travellers who stayed at the lodge. He often also performed other transport-related duties such as deliveries, collections and managing the licensing of the various vehicles.
One of Jacob’s most frequent passengers were former QASA CEO, Ari Seirlis, who frequently visited Gauteng for business. Ari reflects: “Jacob was working for a self-help centre and they chose to let him go. We, at QASA, took the opportunity to employ him. We had a vehicle in Johannesburg and he was familiar with the territory. It proved to be a wonderful relationship.”
“He is very patient and an absolute gentleman. He is compassionate and cares for people. He is also very streetwise and good at navigating – finding places,” Ari says.
He adds that Jacob was extremely helpful – willing to go out of his way to assist anybody. In addition, Jacob was very friendly and talkative, although this never hindered his work. Ari adds: “Jacob was liked by everybody.”
Current QASA COO, Raven Benny says of the 65-year-old retiree: “Jacob has always been a valued employee who met or exceeded our expectations. We are sad to bid him farewell, but wish him all the best with his retirement.”