Catherine Jenkin

Izimvo would like to introduce Catherine Jenkin.

Catherine is the IT Manager for HIV911, a comprehensive guide to HIV/AIDS-related support services in South Africa.

Website: http://www.cathjenkin.wordpress.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/cathjenkin
Location: Durban

Catherine was kind enough to answer the following questions for us:

Personal

Q: The all important personal profile. How would a close friend introduce you at a social event? i.e. Name, age, company, interesting fact etc.

A: A close friend introduce me? Hehe. Something along the lines of “Everything. All at once. And yes, she is this short”. In truth though, I’m headed towards 30 with a big stick, and currently oscillating between fear and excitement about it.

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: I’m allergic to aspirin, liars and idiots.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: Truth is, I haven’t ‘gotten away from it all’ in a very, very long time. This week I’ve spent in Cape Town recently has been the first time for as long as I can remember where I have truly relaxed. And heavens, it’s gorgeous.

Working for an NGO

Q: Please could you give us a brief description of exactly what HIV911 does?

A: HIV-911 is a national referral network of HIV/AIDS service providers. Our database spans nearly 13 000 HIV/AIDS and social welfare-related organizations across the country.

Now, because a database is just a database, we focus on enabling and empowering people – from other HIV/AIDS service providers, prospective funders, and the man on the street, to access critical information on what’s really happening around HIV/AIDS in their chosen area in South Africa.

We produce, annually, hard copy directories for each province, enable easy database searches via our website and run a referral/data collection centre. We’re also very excited to be moving into utlising mobile technologies. Watch this space because that’ what’s really got me excited at the moment!

Q: What is the typical day like as the IT Manager of HIV911?

A: Insane. Hehe. Our office opens at 07h30 and it’s entirely common for me to work late into the night from home, after Cam has gone to bed.

I run on caffeine, Earl Grey tea and regular smoke breaks. The truth is, though, were it not for an exciting environment, inspirational management team and dedicated staff, I would be a complete madwoman.

The biggest hurdle of every day for me is annihilating my inbox and keeping up to date with what’s going on in the world that has an influence on our work from an IT perspective, and keeping an eye out for new opportunities that could improve our accessibility and operations.

Q: Which social media services have you found to be most affective when publicising HIV911?

A: We have a pretty exciting partnership coming into being that’s I’m terribly excited about, but I won’t talk about until the launch. That said, though, Twitter has presented us with a myriad of opportunities and connections, that have proven to be hugely exciting and liberating.

Q: As a mother of a young child, how will you talk to your child about HIV? What age do you think parents should start talking to their children about the disease?

A: Ah, my Camster. Part of my daily routine with Cameron is talking about our days, and obviously the topic of HIV/AIDS has come into the conversation.

I think it is essential to normalize HIV/AIDS in our society, and in our conversations. True, HIV infection can be prevented on a personal level but, the socio-economic and interpersonal effects are so tied into every day life now, that it needs to become acknowledged not just as a disease but, as a fact of life, specifically in the South African context.

So, yes, we’ve spoken about it, in very simple terms, but I’ve not moved into the “how does one get it” realm and suchlike. Cam knows that what “mommy does on her computer” is about “helping sick people and their families”. I think that’s a good start for a four-year old!

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: Unfortunately, yes. Cam and I had our house ransacked and numerous items stolen in March this year, and her dad’s had two cars stolen. It’s a scary experience, and worst of all, it’s the thinking we all have of “well, at least noone was hurt” that scares me mostly.

The truth is, we shouldn’t have to live like that. But, I believe in this country, more than I believe in the goodness of cheese on toast, so no, I won’t be leaving. My sister lives in the UK, and the rest of my family live in Durban.

Q: Have you ever considered emigration? If yes, where do you think you would emigrate to?

A: Yes, I have, very seriously. The UK and Canada. But, as I said, I love this gorgeous country a little too much to leave it.

Q: If you were South African president for just one day, what would you change?

A: As terribly un-human rights-related as it sounds, but I would institute instant castration or hand-removal for all child and animal abusers.

Q: To which three attractions would you first take an international visitor?

A: To be honest, I’m not into conventional sightseeing.

In Durban – The Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW). My mom works there, and the amazing care and love that comes with devoted staff, and a love for animals shines right through. Plus, I grew up around the corner from the Centre!

In Cape Town – Camps Bay. For cocktails in La Med. It’s beautiful. Just serene and gorgeous.

In Johannesburg – Gold Reef City. Mainly so that I can prove that we know how to have fun, with a South African twist. I had such a good time there recently, avoiding the rollercoasters though!

Life in Durban

Q: Where do you most enjoy spending that “Me” time in Durban?

A: At home, in our little garden. Sunshine, reading and playing with Cam.

Q: What are your survival tips for local Durban residents during the December influx of holiday makers?

A: Stay home and rent DVDS, or get your Vitamin D rations in your own garden. Avoid the regular tourist attractions like the plague. Hehe.

General

Q: What are you going to buy yourself as a 40th birthday present?

A: Wow. 40th? I’m battling with the notion of turning 30 already. But, as a 40th birthday present, I’d want to be able to walk into a bookstore and purchase my own novel. That’s a hell of a goal, I know.

Q: One book that you would make required reading for all matric pupils?

A: The Outliers – Malcolm Gladwell. Thank you to Justin Hartman for the recommendation. It reminded me of how lucky I am. And how hard work is worth every second.

Q: Favorite South African band? Have you seen them live and do you own at least one of their albums?

A: I have numerous favourite Durban bands (and they know very well who they are :) but the two most well-known, I think are: The Parlotones and Fire Through the Window. And yeah, I’ve seen both live numerous times and own their albums.

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo?

A: Mmm. Sue Rutherford of The Forge. Now there’s a dedicated, inspirational and hard-working woman if I ever met one. I’m lucky enough to call her my friend.

A big thank you to Catherine and the others at HIV911 for the amazing work they do on a daily basis. We look forward to hearing about the new mobile venture and wish you all the success for the future. Thank you for being a true inspiration.