What does it mean to be an Avo |

What does it mean to be an Avo

Published by Grant Newton March 27th, 2009 in General

One of the icons that we have chosen which describe for us those things that will make our business as success is ‘Building a Better South Africa’. We need to focus on the macro picture and believe that we can make a difference.
We, especially us at Avo, all work hard at taking a positive approach to what can sometimes seem a bit of a negative and futile outlook for our country. But every now and again, if you open yourself to it and look around, you’ll notice those small things happening around you that are worth celebrating.

Like last week: I was sitting working quietly at my computer when I noticed one of these events unfolding outside on the patio. I took a photo for you.

Out came Clayton and Donald, Clay with his Avo-work and Donald with his homework. This is one of Clay’s favourite take-a-break spaces. Clay lights up and Donald opens his homework. Donald belongs to Evelyn, who is on our ’AirTafficControl’ team - one of those people who make stuff happen for us trainers. And ’stuff’ can be just about anything.

Donald, with a little coaxing from Clayton, starts to do his reading: he is in grade one and learning in a second language. So I watched with a little smile on my face as this young man with his calm and caring manner coached Donald with his reading. He helped him when he got stuck, praised when he got it right and just enjoyed the story that Donald was reading him. Clay has taken on just a very small part of growing this country. It’s only 15 min in his day but it will have a lifetime impact on Donald.

So if you want to be an Avo or you want to understand who we are then ask Clayton. Good on you Clay, thanks for the picture - every small contribution makes a difference and the reminder – that we are in the business of growing people in South Africa.

8 Responses to “What does it mean to be an Avo”

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1 yojules Mar 27th, 2009 at 2:27 pm

Thanks, Grant, for making us see!

Clay - you are making a profound difference to this human being! What an Avo you are!
2 Carla-Jo Mar 27th, 2009 at 2:58 pm

What a special moment! I love seeing the relationship between Clay and Donald develop. There is such a magic created when an adult becomes friends with a Child. Thanks for reminding us what is important in life Clayton.
3 Sandi Mar 27th, 2009 at 3:56 pm

It is good to be reminded of how important it is human and kind to one another.
4 Soz Mar 27th, 2009 at 6:08 pm

In my short time at the avo space, It has already become very prevelant that SUPPORT (which funny enough is an essential part of my reason for being there, as Sales-SUPPORT), in it’s many shapes and forms is an essential ingredient in the recipe that makes Avocado Vision what it is.
We all at Avo help each other, in the work space, and in this case it is so clear to see that the pips are there and supportive not only in the constraints of job description and function, but also beyond said labels into genuine care for one another.
By the way, empathy is a strength of mine, and when I say I can “feel the love”, it ain’t no lie. But seriously, although it may seem like words, especially as I am the “Newbie”, one need only see the look in Donalds face, as he gets ready for (and during) his daily homework session to know that it’s real…
Members of Avo are called the “Pips”, Avocado Vision is our Gladys Knight!
5 Raelene Mar 29th, 2009 at 8:21 pm

Not so long ago I witnessed Clay and Donald share some time together-over a cup of tea that Clay had prepared for the both of them-it was so special to see. Clay, you are just always there for eveyone. Grant…Jules said it best, “thank you for making us see” .
6 elaine sampson Mar 30th, 2009 at 1:02 pm

What a beautiful story..wonderful Clay!
7 Clayton Mar 30th, 2009 at 1:25 pm

ah… thanks everyone for your kind words and thanks Grant for noticing. I didnt realise anyone paid any attention, it turns out that you are more astute that I thought. Donald’s adopted me as his Avo friend, but I think he just loves being in this space with all of us, I know he can feel our caring family here at Avo.

It’s so nice to take a few minutes each day to help Donnie, I think it benefits not only him but me too. It’s nice to know that I can contribute in some small way to his life.
8 Tracy May 11th, 2009 at 3:21 pm

Hey Clay…that’s what is so special about you! You do this so quietly, with no fuss or attention. It is really special what you add to Donnie’s life everyday. You really make him feel like he belongs in this busy adult space.

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Building and delivering training solutions that empower people with skills and insight to make better choices and live bigger lives. Being brave enough to take on the challenges at a scale that makes a significant impact in SA and beyond