We, at the Western Cape Blood Service run six blood donor centres across the region, open throughout the week to make giving blood simple and accessible. What truly sets these blood donor centers apart however, is not just their convenience, but the people behind them. From the moment donors walk in, staff greet them with warmth and reassurance, which is especially important for those who feel nervous or anxious. Familiar faces quickly put donors at ease, as blood donor centre teams remain largely the same so that, over time, staff build connections with regular donors, making the experience feel less like a medical procedure and more like a visit among friends.
So, let’s step inside these centres and meet the dedicated teams who ensure every donation is seamless, safe and a positive experience:
At our Long Street Blood Donor Centre, Team Supervisor Lorna Smith, leads a dynamic team of “all-rounders”. They have built a reputation for versatility and inclusivity. What makes them stand out is their rich cultural diversity. Between them, the team speaks an impressive range of languages including English, Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, Tswana, Pedi, Venda, Tsonga and Afrikaaps 😊, ensuring every donor feels understood and welcome. Professional nurse Sr. Paulina, is adored by donors for her beautiful smile. Phlebotomist Aakeefah is famous among her colleagues for making the best donuts, Kaapse “koesisters” and “bollas”, while Deputy Team Supervisor, Clint has an uncanny ability for finding the best snacks when the team’s tummies are rumbling. According to Lorna, donor attendant Athi’s infectious laugh, which she says, sounds like “an old man snoring”, whenever she gets excited, never fails to entertain donors. When asked about the donors who frequently visit the Long Street clinic, Lorna describes them as “vibrant, multi-national individuals, coming together from far and wide with the common goal to help save lives.” It’s a fitting reflection of Cape Town itself, diverse and energetic. “Our company slogan says “Be Remarkable” and I love being Remarkable AND fabulous”, shared Lorna.
At the N1 City Blood Donor Centre, a vibrant team, guided by Team Supervisor Sharon Adriaanse, pride themselves on professionalism and a strong work ethic. Sharon affectionately likens her team to a good curry “Some add much needed subtle undertones, while others bring a strong but not overbearing presence.” For one team member, Lindiwe Jumba, the importance of blood donation is deeply personal. Her husband is a blood recipient whose life has been impacted by the generosity of blood donors, giving her a unique perspective. Alongside Crystal, Unita, Thandeka, Mishka, Shirley and Sr. Vivecia, the team has built a special bond with the N1 City donors. Many stop by just to say hello or surprise the team with a sweet treat to thank them for their hard work. It’s a testament to the great vibe at the N1 City Blood Donor Centre and the staff who work there.
The Capegate Blood Donor Centre team, under the guidance of Team Supervisor Ghadija Petersen, are a wonderful mix of long-standing and newer members, with some on the team for up to six years and others as new as six months. Team members Sr Vasti, Jade, Jabulie, Zoliswa, Chloe and Zenobia embrace a “work hard, play hard” spirit. Weekly team meetings often include interactive games and icebreakers, creating a fun, engaging environment that strengthens their relationships, encourages teamwork, and keeps everyone involved. This sense of camaraderie extends to their donors too. As the team put it, “they’re just lekker people,” and in their words, connecting with them is , “the best part of what we do.”
The Somerset Mall Blood Donor Centre is the newest addition, and the team came together in August 2024. Team Supervisor Anne Smith describes her colleagues as a vibrant mix of energy, humour, calm, focus, and teamwork. Each member brings their own quirks that donors have quickly come to love. Anne, Nathi, and Sr. Vinnes start their mornings with their preferred pick‑me‑up, whether it’s tea, decaf coffee, or an energy drink, while Naz sets the tone by turning on the radio every morning. Roscoe keeps spirits high with his jokes, and Anastacia is known for her playful dances that never fail to make donors smile. Over time, the team has built strong connections with their donors, whom they describe as easy‑going and proud to be part of the life‑saving mission.
Affectionately known as KC, the Kenilworth Centre Blood Donor Centre is led by Team Supervisor Khanita Dollie, who is immensely proud of her team. Passionate about customer service and determined to make a difference, Shafeekah, Celeste, Fay and Kalynn, together with Khanita, each bring unique strengths and talents to the donor centre. One thing they all have in common, is the smiles they share with their donors, as part of the friendly service they provide. Khanita calls her team “everyday heroes”, whose superpower is teamwork! When asked about their donors, the team describes them as, “amazing, full of humour, always ready with interesting stories to share and deeply committed to making a difference,” Donating blood at KC feels less like a task and more like joining a life-saving family and the KC team says everyone is welcome.
Blue Route Blood Donor Centre, one of our longest established donor centres, has been led by Team Supervisor Jessica Busby for the past 13 years. Well known to residents in the surrounding communities, the donor centre has become a trusted and welcoming place to donate blood. Together with Sr Isabel, Jasmine, Jodi, Peter and Lyne, Jessica has helped build a team committed to providing exceptional service. They have won the team challenge award four times since 2018, including their latest win in 2025. This consistent level of excellence has fostered a loyal donor base that returns time and again. In turn, the team is extremely fond of their donors and cares for them as the special life-savers they truly are.
Although each donor centre has its own unique personality, they all share a common purpose, creating a welcoming space where donors feel valued and appreciated. From the friendly faces and laughter to the teams’ dedication, every visit means joining a community of life savers.
