For over three decades, Titus Matlawe (57) has been a dedicated presence in the nursing profession, bringing the same passion and commitment to his work as he did when he first started.
As a Senior Occupational Health Nurse for the City of Johannesburg, Matlawe finds immense satisfaction in making a real difference in the lives of the city’s employees. Based in Region G, which includes Ennerdale, Lenasia and Orange Farm, Matlawe plays a vital role in ensuring a healthy and safe working environment for City of Johannesburg employees. His daily tasks include conducting medical and risk assessments, screenings, raising health awareness, and facilitating important educational and vaccination drives.
Matlawe said: “As a nursing professional, I take pride in making a tangible difference in patients’ lives through compassionate care, advocacy and expertise. Despite the demands of long hours and emotional strain, the ability to provide comfort, promote healing, and support people during their most vulnerable times offers a profound sense of purpose and fulfilment.”
Matlawe’s extensive career in nursing spans many years. He initially joined the Johannesburg Property Company in 2020 to assist with Covid-19 screening at the height of the pandemic. Following a brief stint at the Johannesburg Roads Agency, he was appointed to his current role in 2022. Before joining the City, Matlawe spent over a decade as an Occupational Health Nurse at Eskom and gained experience in Life Occupational Health care in the early 2000s in various industries.
He also served as a national coordinator at Spoornet and senior professional nurse at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital. Matlawe obtained his nursing qualification from Medunsa in 1990 and later earned a diploma in Occupational Health from Occupational Care South Africa Academy of Excellence.Growing up in a township in the North West Province, Itsoseng, Matlawe credits his humble background for shaping his values.
His father, a bricklayer who passed away due to congestive cardiac failure in 1980, inspired Matlawe’s interest in occupational health. “Working in construction exposes you to dust and noise and his illness made me want to learn more about ensuring employee safety in organisations.”
His mother, a hospital general worker, instilled in him the strong principles of ubuntu, which continue to guide his work and life. Outside of his professional life, Matlawe is a passionate music lover and collector. Dependable and caring both professionally and personally, Matlawe continues to dedicate his life to his fulfilling calling within the City of Johannesburg.
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