Putting Transformation, Diversification and Integration First 

The concept of transformation is one that is frequently discussed, particularly within the context of South African companies. We take a look at what this term means within the framework of Mediclinic Southern Africa by speaking with Gale Shabangu, who holds the position of Chief Transformation Officer. This blog coincides with the latest launch of a Transformation publishing by Mediclinic. 

Gale implies that her decision to take on the role more than two years ago was based primarily on the weight and significance they placed on the role. This role is a placement that is on the executive committee of Mediclinic Southern Africa. Gale’s comments on her decision to take on the role She elaborates by saying, “There needs to be the clear intention from the top in order to transform and start moving a company.”

In order for decisions to be made and necessary initiatives to be carried out across the company, there must be an appropriate level of executive leadership. I can put the board’s vision into action across the entire company because I am completing this position at an Executive level. The transformation that is self-sustaining calls for an orientation toward investment in the long term. 

A Publication Titled Transformation Has Been Compiled by Mediclinic

This is one that discusses their past successes, points out areas in which there is an opportunity for improvement, and emphasizes the fact that transformation is a process that must take place over time. She mentions that although there are always things that can be improved, the rationale for creating this piece is to commemorate the success stories that have already been achieved because Mediclinic is such a large organization that has such a broad presence across South Africa.

“It is also not merely about one thing; rather, it is about everything,” she said. A workforce diversity, spearheaded by a diverse management team, and diverse clients served by a patient experience that is on par with the best in the world are all essential components of transformation. I have the impression that our Transformation publishing is a witness to where we are at on this voyage. 

The Concept of Transformation Can Mean Many Different Things

“Coming to terms with the fact that our collective uniqueness is what makes us stronger is essential to me. It makes us more agile and gives us the ability to develop solutions that are outside the box when we have multiple viewpoints on how to solve a problem. She helps explain that it also means that the company empowers innovative thoughts, fresh perspectives, and new viewpoints to spread throughout the organization at all levels and that this is something that occurs at all levels. It also signifies that employees are aware of how their point of view impacts how they turn up and behave in any given circumstance, just as they are aware of the possibility that the perspective of another individual may influence their own. 

Gale’s strategy for taking stock focuses on recognizing and appreciating the diversity that already exists in the company: “We have begun celebrating various days on the calendar, including Youth Day, Heritage Day, Pride Month or International Men’s Day, showcasing how our company is already an example of people from a variety of backgrounds.” Mediclinic is also concentrating on improving overall business comprehension through the implementation of a web-based Diversity and Inclusion Learning Program.

This module gives each employee the opportunity to evaluate their perspective and determine how they can better consider the perspectives of others and be more inclusive in their interactions. In addition, according to Gale, they are investigating all aspects of the business, from the suppliers to the specialized practices to the training, to gain a deeper comprehension of how they can most effectively assist inclusiveness and diversity and increase growth from a transformational point of view. She makes the observation that even though there are already a number of success stories being shared, there is always space for more. 

Transformation requires patience, but there are frequent opportunities for quick wins along the way. According to her, it is the way in which individuals approach the problem of transformation, diversity, and inclusion that needs to change. By giving employees access to an online course in which they can move through the material at their own pace and be questioned regarding their own life experiences and prejudices, we can encourage them to engage critically with the material.

They are given the opportunity to evaluate the areas in which their experiences may potentially differ from those of others, as well as the worth that an integrative practice can bring to a group. When employees are able to start dismantling the groupthink that commonly occurs in large companies, they have achieved success. This paves the way for the creation of value through broad and engaging discussions. 

Obtaining the Buy-in of Individuals is Another Important Aspect of This Strategy

According to Gale, “Ambition for change focuses on ‘what is in it for me,'” and “we ought to bring transformation into our workgroups through a ‘pull approach, where team members seek uniqueness to succeed.” If the company places more emphasis on the advantages that transformation offers to a team – namely, that it is not about adverse consequences but rather the expansion of optimistic career opportunities, the enrichment of the working environment, and the unavoidable advantages that come with an efficient team that functions with empathy – then the business will realize that transformation is not about the potential for adverse effects.

Her hope is that workers will have the impression that they have the liberty to express concerns whenever they have them, as well as the environment to have honest communication about challenging subjects. 

Employees can carry over the healthy work environment to Mediclinic patients if they are more accepting of others and allow others to positively influence each other. This has a positive effect on “what is in it for our clients.”  They will feel the genuine compassion and comprehension that those who care for them naturally radiate toward them.