Elise Salome Masetlha’s 27-year journey with the City of Johannesburg has been marked by immense growth and unwavering dedication to serving the City and its residents.

Known affectionately as Lolo, Masetlha will have her final day as Assistant Director: Performance Management and Business Support in Library and Information Services (LIS) at the end of June 2024, before embarking on her well-deserved retirement.

Reflecting on her career, Masetlha proudly says, “I gave the City my all in whatever I did and served with dedication.”

Born and raised in Dube, Soweto, as the youngest of six siblings, she was encouraged to emulate her elders and succeed in all her undertakings. “Most importantly, I was taught to practice humanity in whatever and wherever I am,” she adds.

This upbringing laid the foundation for her successful career. In 1996, Masetlha obtained a degree in Library Science from the University of Western Cape. She also holds an Honours Degree in Information Science from the University of Johannesburg (then Rand Afrikaans University), a diploma in Logistics Management, and a Master of Public Management qualification from Regenesys.

Before joining the City, Masetlha worked in the financial sector, primarily in short-term insurance companies. In 1997, she was appointed as a librarian in the City of Johannesburg and served in various regions.

In 2001, she assumed the role of Regional Manager. By 2015, she was seconded to Human Resources to perform Field Services and also served as Acting Assistant Director for Community Development Business Management Support.

“This secondment brought its own challenges. On reflection, I can say I cried, I smiled, and I danced,” she recalls.

In 2016, Masetlha was appointed Assistant Director of Regional Services. Her tenure in regional services was marked by hands-on involvement and strategic support until March 2019, when she was entrusted with new responsibilities.

For a brief period, she transitioned to support the Deputy Director of Regional Services before being appointed to her current role in 2020. Masetlha considers the opportunities to evolve in separate roles a significant blessing.

“That helped me to succeed in all challenges thrown my way,” she notes.

ne of her proudest memories is the advice and teachings she imparted to young professionals eager to learn from her, with many returning to say her guidance has been invaluable.

Describing herself as opinionated and a perfectionist, Masetlha cites her biggest strength as her openness to ask for help, ensuring she never approaches tasks blindly. She is always willing to educate herself.

In retirement, Masetlha plans to travel, read, and pursue activities she has postponed, such as learning to swim. Having worked since the age of 22, she is looking forward to nurturing her inner child after years of focusing on her career and education.

Her colleagues speak fondly of her. “Lolo, you have played a significant role in the LIS directorate. You have been a critical part of our team, and we could not have accomplished what we did without your energy and attitude towards your work,” says Nobuntu Mpendulo, LIS Director.

Written by Brümilda Swartbooi
26/06/2024​

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