Who did you impact today? Ashley’s 11 Years at JET

After chatting with Ashley Manuels, we learned a bit more about his experience at JET Education Services and his work. Ashley Manuels is a Senior Research Coordinator. He began his journey at JET as a casual worker before becoming a consultant, fixed-term employee and eventually a permanent staff member. Reflecting on that journey, he says: “The CEO used to encourage me and say, ‘We see you, we value you and we definitely appreciate your contribution to the organisation.’ And look at where I am today. Blessed and highly favoured”

This year, Ashley celebrates 11 years at JET and says the organisation has shaped not only his career but also his life. Ashley describes himself as much more than a Senior Research Coordinator: “I project manage projects, I am involved in the JET Podcast getting it off the ground using my contacts in the entertainment industry and I am the unofficial, Official Malume in the office,” he says. Ashley also assisted with JET’s move to the Melrose Estate office and enjoys participating in CSI activities. “I love to participate in CSI-related activities, giving back to our learners in project schools.”

At the centre of Ashley’s work is a passion for learners. “If a learner must learn how to use AI in Maths, I will do EVERYTHING legal in my power to make sure the learner gets that opportunity,” he says. “If I walk into any school, those learners become MY learners.”

One of the projects closest to his heart is the Grade R Maths and Languages Improvement Programme in Gauteng. Ashley says the programme aimed to give all learners, including learners with special needs, “a fair chance at starting their schooling right.” He remembers the moment implementation finally started after many challenges behind the scenes: “I actually shed a tear of ‘whooosaaa’.”

Ashley also reflects on the JICA project, which took him to remote areas across the country. “Travelling thousands of kilometres just to make sure we reach the MOST learners made me realise how far JET’s reach is,” he says. He also credits his Executive Manager, Dr Craig Gibbs, for supporting him through the demanding Mr Price Foundation project. “I came out breathing and learning so much about Project Management in practice, not just on paper.”

For Ashley, one of the biggest reasons he has stayed at JET for over a decade is the people. “The HUMAN aspect of belonging, being included, and being heard, is what kept me here for such a long time,” he says. He reflects on how colleagues have supported him through both difficult and joyful moments over the years. “Every time when something happens, colleagues jump in to assist. Sometimes I don’t even know of something but I was ‘covered’.”

“I have to mention the one incident when I approached Human Resources, Cleopatra Morudu. We were both in shock at what happened, but she took control of the situation and ensured that I was taken care of. From arranging for me to get home safely to ensuring the necessary aftercare was provided, she handled everything with care and professionalism. I truly felt seen, supported and blessed in that moment. I also have to acknowledge Selminah Tshirundu, who has consistently been that steady presence for me, the person who keeps me grounded and always makes sure I am okay. I also have a “work wife” in the office, and what makes it even more special is that she is happily married, and her husband has also become a good friend of mine. Forever and a day, THANK YOU.”

Known across the office as “Malume Ash”, Ashley says colleagues often turn to him for advice and support. “Sometimes you just need a shoulder to lean on, an ear to listen to you or a soundboard,” he says. “When I get into bed at night, I ask myself: ‘Who did you impact today?’ 

Ashley used the isiZulu proverb, ”Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu’ translating to "a person is a person through other people. “I live by that ethos.”

One of Ashley’s proudest moments at JET was receiving the Investors in People Award in London on behalf of the organisation. “The one that ALL Jetsetters had a hand in,” he says. “JET deserves my optimum.”

Looking at JET’s future, Ashley believes people remain at the heart of every strategy. “If the people are not in it, you won’t win,” he says. “JETwork is TEAMwork.”