malvernmugadzikwa
Sunday Mail Reporter
IN a world where career paths often take unexpected turns and job loyalty seems to be on the wane, it is difficult to find a worker with unwavering dedication to duty.
But one exception is Mr Michael Gondo, a remarkable individual who has spent over 60 years working for textile giant Paramount Garments.
He has worked as a mechanical technician. The job entails maintaining and repairing different types of equipment, as well as providing data analysis or other support services to engineers.
Mr Gondo could probably be one of the longest-serving Zimbabweans to ever work for one company.
Paramount Garments was established in the 1940s.
It specialises in, among other things, the manufacture of clothing items that include school uniforms, work suits and casual wear.
Mr Gondo has been with the firm since the early 1960s.
He was born in 1946 and turned 78 this year.
In November last year, Paramount Garments gave him an accolade for being the longest-serving worker.
“Winning the accolade marked a special day for me. I am proud to have served the company well because it has also served me well during my decades of service,” Mr Gondo told The Sunday Mail.
He started working for the company when he was a teenager, soon after completing a course in fashion design.
Later, he received on-the-job training.
His discipline and commitment to duty saw him become a senior employee.
Mr Gondo, who has mentored hundreds of workers, said he had become so attached to his job that he could not imagine doing anything else.
“Over the years, it has become more than a job for me,” he added.
“Working became something that left me satisfied and content. Inasmuch as money is needed, I found peace in doing what I want and told myself money is never enough to solve a person’s problems, so I am always happy with what I earn.”
Mr Gondo lives a fairly decent life.
He owns a house in Chitungwiza, has a car and managed to send all his four children to school.
Although the working environment and equipment have evolved over the years, he has continued to keep abreast with new trends.
“I always try to stay up to date with things around me and adapt to changes,” he said.
Last year, he contemplated retiring, but he could not bring himself to doing it.
Paramount Garments said it cherished the invaluable contribution made by workers such as Mr Gondo.
“Mr Gondo’s leadership and mentorship have played a pivotal role in nurturing talent within the company, and his profound understanding of the industry has been instrumental in guiding Paramount Garments through various challenges and opportunities,” said the company in a statement.
“His long-standing service is a testament to his loyalty and passion for the company’s mission and values.”
Fellow workers described him as an enthusiastic and humble member of staff, who is always eager to help workmates.
The world celebrated Workers’ Day — or May Day — on Wednesday.
May Day began as a commemoration of the 1886 Haymarket Riot in Chicago, the United States, to demand better working conditions.
Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter