Finding the harmony between professional obligations and personal well-being is not just a perk—it's a necessity. Our commitment to fostering a nurturing work environment has birthed our beloved tradition: the "Thank God It's Friday" (TGIF) activity. This vibrant, monthly gathering is not only a testament to our organizational culture but also a celebration of the diversity, unity, and spiritedness that define us.
Held on the last Friday of each month, our TGIF is a variety of activities designed to ignite joy, foster connections, and refresh our team. The event is a lively mix of indoor games—including chess, card games, ludo, and Wood Block Game—as well as outdoor activities with volleyball and table tennis. But the festivities don't stop there; they sometimes reach a climax with karaoke sessions, where our staff showcase their vocal talents, followed by a feast of food and drinks, making it an absolute delight.
Why do we do this? At eHealth Africa, we believe that work-life balance is crucial for the mental health and overall productivity of our team. These activities provide an informal setting for staff to unwind, connect with each other outside of work protocols, and build a sense of family and togetherness. It's a reminder that we're not just colleagues—we're a family.
Our staff's reflections beautifully articulate the impact of these gatherings:
Deborah Solomon, a Senior Project Support Coordinator from our Kano office, shares, "TGIF is the highlight of my month! The games, the singing, the laughter—it's the perfect way to unwind. I feel deeply connected to my colleagues, and it's wonderful to see everyone let their guard down and just have fun!"
Ibrahim Adepoju, who is part of our network administration team, adds, "The last Friday of the month is something I eagerly await. The activities help me de-stress, and I've discovered so many hidden talents among my colleagues! It's a fantastic way to wrap up the month."
From Abuja, Diligence Saviour Albert, a member of our business application team, remarks, "I've always believed in work-life balance, and the TGIF initiative reinforces that. From board games to karaoke, there's something for everyone. It's not just about relaxation; these moments enhance our teamwork and make us look forward to the challenges ahead."
Similarly, Onyeka Onwuama, an associate project manager in our Borno office, reflects, "These gatherings are not just for fun; they're essential to our well-being. Connecting with colleagues over a game of chess or a song builds a support system that transcends professional relationships. It's refreshing and, honestly, a major morale booster."
Our TGIF tradition is embedded in our core belief at eHealth Africa: we are as dedicated to our staff's well-being as we are to the communities we serve. Creating spaces for our team to relax, connect, and recharge is not just about building a positive work culture; it's a fundamental part of our success story. As we continue to strive for excellence in building a stronger health system in Africa, we remain equally committed to nurturing a work environment where staff are appreciated, celebrated, and cared for—ensuring that at eHealth Africa, every last Friday isn’t just the end of a month, but a celebration of the people who make our mission possible.