Renate Zipfel, manager of the DNA Sequencing Facility in the Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology (BGM) reflects on working from home during the COVID-19 lockdown.

When Lockdown was announced in South Africa I told myself that despite the concerns and uncertainty that this unprecedented situation brings, I want to focus on the how privileged I am - fortunate to have a home, family, friends, employment, work and colleagues. Working from home has come with some challenges, learning new skills, self-discipline and setting up structured, yet flexible plans to get the job done. It also has advantages such as a 7m walk to the home office each morning in comparison to my usual 70km ‘crack-of-dawn’ drive to work. The regular scheduled online meetings at FABI help bring structure and a sense of connection to the work environment. I could also find time for regular exercise, chores, and to share meals with my husband as we synchronised our schedules. Over the long weekend I spent time making masks for the Steve Biko hospital for a social support project mentioned by Prof. Fanus Venter. On ‘Freedom day’ I had some time to reflect on what PRIVILEGE means to me when I work from home during this time.

P - for Proudly South African in this time of crisis - Passionate and committed People are our most important resource - ‘Pay it forward’ to someone who needs assistance - good Plans to keep things working.

R - for Risk management, social Responsibility #stayathome - careful use of Resources – the importance of Research and science - Reflection on what is important - Resilience during challenging times.

I - for Information - share facts not fake news.

V - for Vision and Viable solutions. 

I - for Ingenuity and Innovation in a time of crisis - do the best with what you have now.

L - for good Leadership - Learning new skills and ‘Love thy neighbour’.

E - for Empathy and compassion for those who are struggling - Environment and Ecosystems - we are part of the bigger picture. Lets take care of all aspects of our environment. Please enjoy this song written and recorded by my husband Manfred which he completed during lockdown that speaks to this theme.

G - for personal Growth and Gratitude.

E - for Education; Endurance and Engaging with each other despite the social distancing.