Neelma Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
04 August 2024 | 17:56 CAT

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In the APA’s 2024 Work in America survey, which gathered responses from a diverse range of industries and job roles, 15% of respondents labelled their workplace somewhat or very toxic.

The survey found that nearly 3 in 5 respondents said their employer thinks their work environment is much mentally healthier than it is (59%). Almost 2 in 5 said they worry that if they tell their employer about a mental health condition, it will hurt them in the workplace (39%).

Among those living with a cognitive, emotional, learning, or mental disability, 24% reported a ‘toxic workplace’ experience. Such environments can leave employees physically and mentally unwell, instil fear, and lead to a desire to leave. This is what led Victor Seshoka, CEO of Kgalalelo Education Foundation, to pen a book titled Stepping Into Light: Walking Away from Toxicity to Deal with Toxicity that is Clouding the Workplace.

In a conversation on Radio Islam with Victor Seshoka, CEO of Kgalalelo Education Foundation, Seshoka was motivated to write his title, ‘Stepping into Light.’

“Having worked for public service for 18 years has seen quite a number of his colleagues reporting sick who will then be demoralised by the workplace.”

This has made Seshoka bold enough to write a book that has the potential to illuminate and explicate exactly what is happening in the workplace, paving the way for positive change.

Meanwhile, a toxic workplace can’t be left alone because it won’t self-improve. It has to be fixed with purpose. Start communicating in meaningful ways, as dialogue is a powerful tool in addressing workplace issues.

You can listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulanan Junaid Kharsany Victor Seshoka, CEO of Kgalalelo Education Foundation, here.