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Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
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ILSE THEYS WOODWARD

ILSE THEYS WOODWARD

OPERATIONAL NURSING MANAGER
Cape Town
I cannot believe the purpose of life is to be happy. I think the purpose of life is to be useful, to be responsible, to be compassionate. It is, above all, to matter, to count, to stand for something, to have made some difference that you lived at all.
Leo Rosten

Work Preference

Work Type

Full TimeGig WorkContract Work

Location Preference

RemoteHybrid

Important To Me

Flexible work hoursCareer advancementHealthcare benefitsWork-life balancePersonal development programsTeam Building / Company RetreatsPaid sick leave4-day work weekCompany CultureWork from home option401k matchPaid time offStock Options / Equity / Profit Sharing

Summary

I have grown to be an insightful manager with experience directing and improving operations through effective employee motivational strategies and strong policy enforcement. Together with proficiency in best practices, market trends and regulatory requirements of industry operations.


Seasoned through over a decade as a nursing professional offering natural interpersonal strengths and technical abilities. Knowledgeable about wellness, mental health, community care, staff wellness and interdisciplinary collaboration focused on optimizing patient care and support. Quality-focused and efficiency-driven leader.


I am further proactive and goal-oriented both personally and as a professional with excellent management and problem-solving skills.


Furthermore I am known for reliability and adaptability, with swift capacity to learn and apply new skills I am committed to leveraging these qualities to drive team success and contribute to organizational growth.

Overview

2026
2026
years of professional experience
4
4
Certifications
5
5
Languages
8
8
years of post-secondary education

Work History

Operational Nursing Manager

Phambili Community Development (NGO SECTOR)
12.2024 - Current
  • My role as The Operational Nursing Manager is to provide strategic and operational leadership for the delivery of high-quality nursing and wellness services across all NGO programmes, including HIV care, gender-based violence (GBV) response, elderly support clubs, wellness and mental health services, and staff support at clinics and CDU sites. The role ensures that nursing operations are efficient, compassionate, and aligned with organizational and public health standards, while fostering a culture of staff wellness, professional development, and continuous improvement.
  • Responsibilities include
  • 1. Operational and Clinical Management
  • Lead and oversee nursing operations across programmed sites, including clinics, CDU facilities, and community health projects.
  • Ensure effective service delivery in line with national clinical protocols, HIV and GBV care standards, and NGO policies.
  • Coordinate HIV care and adherence support services, ensuring integration with GBV and wellness interventions.
  • Oversee the implementation of elderly support clubs, ensuring that care plans promote dignity, social connection, and holistic well-being.
  • Develop and implement operational systems to support service efficiency and resource optimization.
  • Ensure accurate record-keeping, data management, and compliance with health regulations.
  • 2. Staff Wellness and Mental Health Support
  • Design, implement, and monitor staff wellness programmed that promote physical health, mental resilience, and overall well-being.
  • Establish and manage Mental Wellness Hubs to provide accessible psychosocial and emotional support for staff working in high-stress environments (clinics, GBV units, CDU sites, etc.).
  • Facilitate regular wellness days, debriefing sessions, and stress management workshops.
  • Collaborate with HR and wellness partners to implement employee assistance and trauma support initiatives.
  • Promote a culture of care, inclusivity, and mental health awareness within all programmed teams.
  • 3. Staff Development and Capacity Building
  • Lead the design and rollout of staff development programmed for nurses, wellness officers, and support staff.
  • Conduct training needs assessments and develop annual capacity-building plans.
  • Coordinate and facilitate training on HIV management, GBV response, elderly care, mental wellness, and trauma-informed practice.
  • Support staff to meet Continuous Professional Development (CPD) requirements and professional growth goals.
  • Mentor nursing and field staff to strengthen leadership, clinical judgment, and ethical practice.
  • 4. Leadership and People Management
  • Supervise and mentor nursing team leaders, site coordinators, and wellness facilitators.
  • Conduct regular performance reviews and support individualized development plans.
  • Foster teamwork, open communication, and a supportive work environment across sites.
  • Ensure effective staffing, rostering, and leave management to maintain uninterrupted service delivery.
  • Ensure smooth coordination between programmed (HIV, GBV, elderly support, wellness) for a holistic service approach.
  • Strengthen collaboration between clinical teams, psychosocial services, and community outreach components.
  • Liaise with government departments, partner NGOs, and donors to align services with broader public health objectives.
  • Participate in strategic planning and contribute to proposals, budgets, and reports.
  • Monitor and evaluate programmed performance and provide regular operational reports to management.
  • Led nursing team to enhance patient care standards and implement best practices.
  • Developed and executed training programs to improve staff competencies and performance.
  • Streamlined patient intake processes, reducing wait times and increasing satisfaction.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to address community health needs and improve service delivery.
  • Conducted performance evaluations and provided mentorship to nursing staff for professional development.
  • Implemented quality assurance protocols to maintain compliance with health regulations and standards.
  • Enhanced staff performance through regular evaluations, feedback, and tailored coaching sessions.
  • Spearheaded initiatives to improve employee retention rates and decrease turnover through mentorship programs, competitive compensation packages, and recognition of outstanding performance.
  • Streamlined workflows with the introduction of electronic health record systems, reducing documentation errors.
  • Delegated responsibilities effectively amongst team members according to individual strengths and areas of expertise which allowed for smooth transitions during shift changes and increased overall productivity.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes and streamline communication between departments.
  • Assessed staffing needs accurately during crucial times such as holidays or flu season to ensure adequate coverage withou or creating unnecessary financial burden.
  • Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
  • Coordinated and implemented in-service educational programs focusing on safety and adherence to protocols.
  • Led staff meetings to keep team informed of departmental changes and provide opportunities for nurses to share ideas and concerns.
  • Promoted professional development opportunities to encourage nurses to pursue continuous training.
  • Managed 83 care workers, 7 professional nurses and nursing activities in NGO by providing comprehensive nursing guidance and maintaining outstanding patient satisfaction and care standards.
  • Managed budgeting and resource allocation to ensure optimal operational efficiency.

Midwife

Nursing Agencies & Private Sector
02.2015 - Current
  • Services rendered at different hospitals as midwife at both Melomed Bellville and Tygerberg Hospital ward C2A. The other private facility worked was Rondebosch Medical Centre in the oncology/medical ward.
  • Provided prenatal education and guidance to expectant mothers, ensuring informed decision-making.
  • Assisted with labor and delivery processes, monitoring maternal and fetal well-being effectively.
  • Documented patient histories and assessments, maintaining accuracy in medical records.
  • Supported postnatal care by advising on infant feeding and maternal recovery strategies.
  • Conducted regular health assessments, identifying potential complications and coordinating care.
  • Developed community outreach programs to promote maternal health awareness and resources.
  • Watched vital signs, checked for comfort levels and monitored emotional states of mothers before, during, and after labor.
  • Improved patient satisfaction by providing compassionate and knowledgeable care during prenatal, labor, and postpartum periods.
  • Empowered mothers to make informed decisions about their care through comprehensive education on pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care.
  • Educated mothers and families on pregnancy-related topics to inform and prepare for pregnancy, childbirth and newborn care.
  • Performed neonatal assessments by checking baby's vital signs and performing physical exams to determine overall health at birth.
  • Co-managed high-risk pregnancies and assisted in delivery of multiples.
  • Performed routine postpartum care, such as suturing and wound care.
  • Collaborated with healthcare teams to develop individualized birth plans for clients.
  • Counseled patients and families on reproductive health and contraception.
  • Used special labor and delivery procedures, including episiotomy and forceps deliveries.

Registered Professional Nurse

Busamed Paardevlei Private Hospital
03.2017 - 06.2024
  • Professional nurse working with team compliment of auxiliary and enrolled nurse. Ensuring good flow of unit and overall patient satisfaction. Encouraging development and growth of team. Responsible for infection control portfolio for a time period, ensuring ipc audits and regulatory meetings. Assisting with shifts and agency bookings Night manager stands in for hospital, liaising with wards and dealing with patient satisfaction and care. Dealing and resolve with communication and workforce matters. Together with on call personnel callout's for emergency theatre procedures. Presenting of information sessions and workshops in accordance to topics per calendar schedules. Representative as part of staff recognition and appreciation initiative.
  • Administered medications and monitored patient responses to treatment plans.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement patient care strategies.
  • Promoted infection control practices by maintaining strict adherence to sanitation standards and protocols throughout the unit.
  • Administered medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop patient care plans.
  • Monitored and documented patient vital signs and health status.
  • Educated patients and families on disease management and health promotion.
  • Administered medications and treatments according to established protocols.
  • Conducted patient assessments to identify care needs and develop care plans.
  • Educated patients and families on health management and post-discharge care.
  • Mentored junior nursing staff on best practices and clinical procedures.
  • Educated patients on preventative measures for chronic illnesses, promoting positive lifestyle changes that contribute towards overall health.
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction through compassionate and empathetic communication.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to provide comprehensive patient care.
  • Served as a preceptor for new nurses, offering guidance and mentorship in clinical practice.
  • Facilitated therapeutic communication, conflict resolution and crisis intervention by redirecting negative behaviors and helping patients regain or improve coping abilities.
  • Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
  • Observed and documented patient factors such as diets, physical activity levels, and behaviors to understand conditions and effectively modify treatment plans.
  • Led teams in driving successful patient outcomes by prioritizing standard of care and best practices.
  • Collaborated with leadership to devise initiatives for improving nursing satisfaction, retention and morale.
  • Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.

Lifeguard/ Squad Leader

Lifesaving Western Province
  • A service provider to the city of Cape Town facilities in conjunction with lifesaving western province. Level 3 First Aider duties include crowd control, delegation of activities and designated areas to cover, rotation schedules, assistance with special events and promotions, equipment control and stock control. Administration work – Schedule duties, writing incident reports, statistics, lost and found, missing or lost children with aid of facilities law enforcement team.
  • Monitored pool activities to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
  • Responded swiftly to emergencies, providing immediate first aid and rescue assistance.
  • Conducted routine safety inspections of pool facilities and equipment.
  • Educated patrons on water safety practices and pool rules.
  • Assisted in training new lifeguards, enhancing team performance and safety standards.
  • Coordinated emergency response drills to improve readiness and team efficiency.
  • Implemented safety protocols that reduced incidents and improved patron confidence.
  • Attentively monitored swimmers to identify distress.
  • Developed and maintained effective communication with team members for enhanced operational flow.
  • Supported swim lesson instructors in providing quality instruction to students of all ages and skill levels.
  • Maximized customer satisfaction by greeting pool patrons with courtesy and resolving issues promptly.
  • Handled incident reporting accurately and efficiently, documenting any occurrences that required intervention or assistance from lifeguard staff.
  • Led water safety workshops, increasing community knowledge and swimmer confidence.
  • Collaborated with local schools to implement water safety programs, broadening community outreach.

Senior Lifeguard

City of Cape Town (Sports & Recreation)
01.2008 - 12.2018
  • Supervised daily pool operations, ensuring safety protocols were consistently followed.
  • Monitored pool activities, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
  • Provided first aid and emergency response, maintaining readiness for critical situations.
  • Conducted regular safety drills, enhancing team readiness and response times.
  • Trained new lifeguards on rescue techniques and emergency procedures.
  • Learned and maintained proficiency in first responder skills such as First Aid and CPR to offer individuals in distress optimal support.
  • Performed regular equipment checks on rescue gear, ensuring optimal readiness in case of emergency situations.
  • Assisted in scheduling lifeguard shifts, optimizing staff coverage and efficiency.
  • Collaborated with management to improve operational procedures and enhance guest experience.
  • Reduced response time to emergencies with regular training sessions for lifeguard staff.
  • Coordinated schedules, effectively managing a team of 10+ lifeguards for optimal coverage during peak hours.
  • Organized special events such as swimming competitions or fundraisers, coordinating logistics and promoting community involvement.
  • Mentored junior lifeguards in proper rescue techniques, ensuring consistent high-quality performance across the team.
  • Observed recreational users to detect safety concerns and prevent ongoing violations.
  • Monitored assigned areas for unsafe activity and took corrective actions.
  • Earned Water Safety Instructor certification and managed beachfront safety.
  • Explained and demonstrated swimming strokes, exhibiting proper technique and positioning in water.

Professional Nurse

Karl Bremer Hospital
07.2015 - 02.2017
  • Professional Nurse working with a multi-disciplinary team. Triage of patients in accordance to the international triage system. Dealing with medical, surgical as well as obstetric emergencies.
  • Working as shift leader, guiding a team of ten, delegating skill specific tasks.
  • Good team work and ethics is of great importance, more so working in a high-pressure environment. Assisting with shift schedules and ensuring improvement of staff performance and efficiency of overall service delivery.
  • Pursuing further education in the field and growing in the profession.
  • Implemented infection control measures to enhance patient safety.
  • Assisted in performing diagnostic tests and interpreting results.
  • Provided emotional support and counseling to patients and families.
  • Trained new nursing staff on hospital protocols and procedures.

Community Service Professional Nurse

Mowbray Maternity Hospital
02.2014 - 01.2015
  • The role of the community service professional nurse (cspn) is that of a professional nurse with guidance and supervision to familiarize and become fully competent and confident in each of the areas placed. Thus far rotation has been in the antenatal clinic (OPD) and First Stage of Labor Suite. The antenatal clinic requires managing the high risk clients in the following categories hypertension, Igt, preterm and post term, previous caesarean sections, stillbirths and neonatal deaths. Health education and talks are given as well as advice and correct referral pathways. Each client is managed according to specific observations, symptoms together with further assessment by doctor. New bookings are done here; inclusive of ensuring mothers above thirty years of age receive a pap smear if one has not been done in designated period.
  • First stage requires vigilance and insight, high risk clients feed from hospitals, antenatal clinic as well as sister MOUs. We are to competently deal with all high-risk clients, inductions of labor, obstetric emergencies. Regular attendance of training and refreshers such as PEP aid to ensure the highest standard of care is practiced and maintained. The orientation of clients to procedures and policies of ward are of priority. Its duty of professional nurse to ensure if there are students, they are properly orientated, guided and supervised on procedures and conduct in the ward.
  • Assisted in patient admissions and discharges, ensuring smooth transitions and accurate documentation.
  • Supported nursing staff with daily patient care activities, enhancing overall workflow efficiency.
  • Managed appointment scheduling, optimizing patient flow and reducing wait times.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of patient care areas, adhering to health and safety standards.
  • Developed strong relationships with clients, leading to repeat business and referrals.
  • Proactively addressed potential issues before they escalated, preventing negative impacts on the customer experience.
  • Generated positive feedback from clients through effective problem-solving skills and empathetic communication techniques.
  • Remained calm during high-stress, critical situations, demonstrating sustained focus and problem-solving in real-time.
  • Facilitated therapeutic communication, conflict resolution and crisis intervention by redirecting negative behaviors and helping patients regain or improve coping abilities.

Senior LTS instructor and baby swim instructor

Cape Otters Swim School
03.2008 - 06.2012
  • Forming part of the coaching team incorporating different skill levels to allow students to reach their fullest potential. Co coordinating of summer swim camps, formatting assessment tool templates, Consumer interaction and client care provider. Facilitation of individual and group classes in accordance to swim South Africa guidelines. First-aid provider. The building positive rapport with students and parents allowing for open communication is of importance. Client satisfaction is of high priority.
  • Instructed students in swimming techniques, ensuring safety and skill development.
  • Developed lesson plans tailored to diverse skill levels and learning styles.
  • Monitored student progress, providing constructive feedback for improvement.
  • Implemented safety protocols during lessons to promote a secure learning environment.
  • Collaborated with parents to discuss student performance and progress.
  • Assisted in organizing swim meets and events, enhancing community engagement.
  • Trained junior instructors on teaching methodologies and safety practices.
  • Increased student motivation by developing engaging lesson plans that catered to various learning styles.
  • Tracked student progress, frequently checking in with struggling students and identifying root causes of problems.
  • Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current on educational trends and enhance teaching effectiveness.
  • Improved swimmer confidence by providing consistent positive reinforcement and constructive feedback on technique.
  • Prepared equipment before each class class and stored items promptly after classes.
  • Collaborated with aquatic center staff to coordinate schedules, pool availability, and other logistical needs, ensuring smooth operation of swim lessons program.
  • Provided one-on-one instruction for students requiring additional assistance in mastering specific skills or techniques.

Rescuer/guest relations/ activities coordinator

Dubai Ladies Club
08.2005 - 12.2007
  • Providing a safe environment for the females’ only resort we deal with customer service and first responder situations. Duties include assistance of guests & running and coordination of children’s summer camp activities, water safety workshops, Front desk reception and guest relations form part of responsibilities when required.
  • Coordinated and organized diverse activities and events for members, enhancing community engagement.
  • Developed and maintained schedules for events, ensuring timely preparation and execution.
  • Collaborated with team members to create promotional materials, increasing event visibility and participation.
  • Assisted in evaluating member feedback to improve future programming and service offerings.
  • Developed and maintained positive guest relationships to enhance overall satisfaction.
  • Coordinated guest feedback initiatives to identify service improvement opportunities.
  • Provided exceptional customer support through phone, email, and chat channels.
  • Resolved customer inquiries and issues efficiently, ensuring satisfaction.
  • Maintained accurate records of customer interactions using MEIRC training institute guidelines.
  • Collaborated with team members to improve service delivery processes
  • Developed and implemented program schedules, ensuring seamless execution of activities.
  • Coordinated daily activities and events, enhancing participant engagement and satisfaction.

Rescuer

Jumeirah International
04.2001 - 08.2005
  • A Service ambassador part of frontline staff working together with paramedics and security. Competently handle emergency situations, crowd control and medical emergencies. At least 6hrs training per month is logged which we do through in-service training, these could cover all topics to inform & improve our knowledge on current medical, park operating procedures and laws as to make sure we stay well aware all responsibilities entrusted to us. I made use of on hand cross-training facilities & trained as team leader and assistant manager successfully.
  • Conducted emergency response drills to enhance team readiness and coordination.
  • Operated rescue equipment and tools, ensuring proper maintenance and functionality.
  • Assisted in patient assessment and stabilization during rescue operations.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop safety protocols and procedures.
  • Evaluated rescue scenarios to identify areas for process improvement and efficiency.
  • Led incident debriefs to analyze performance and implement corrective actions.
  • Initiated first aid measures to alleviate further injury and prepared victims for transport to medical facilities.
  • Responded to emergency medical calls to perform lifesaving procedures and other emergency medical services.
  • Prepared incident reports detailing personnel, location and results of each call.

Education

EXECUTIVE MASTERS DEGREE IN MBA NURSING MANAGEMENT - Nursing Leadership And Management

TECH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY, Spain Andora La Vella
06.2025 - 07.2026
  • Completed University-level Coursework: Health systems and Policies, Planning & Control of Health organizations, TECH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERISTY
  • Completed University-level Coursework: Clinical, Economic and People Management, TECH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
  • The Nursing Department in the Health system. Clinical and Nursing care management, TECH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
  • Quality and safety management, TECH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERISTY
  • Management in care settings, TECH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
  • Decision making and Communication in Nursing Leadership, TECH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
  • Nursing management services in Society marketing, communication and mHealth, TECH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

EDUCATION - PRECEPTORSHIP CERTIFICATION

UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN CAPE, Cape Town, South Africa
07.2025 - 07.2025

PILLAR 1: PROFFESIONALISM & ROLE CLARITY

  • Understand the role, responsibilities, and boundaries of a preceptor.
  • Demonstrate ethical behavior, confidentiality, and professional accountability.
  • Model expected workplace conduct and communication.
  • Definition of a preceptor
  • Expectations of role: mentor, teacher, supervisor, evaluator
  • Ethical practices & confidentiality
  • Professional identity and conduct
  • Scope of practice alignment (SANC)

PILLAR 2: EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

  • Communicate clearly using therapeutic, assertive, and constructive techniques.
  • Provide structured feedback (SBAR, CUS, Sandwich method).
  • Facilitate open dialogue and safe learning spaces.
  • Communication styles
  • Active listening
  • Conflict-resolution basics
  • Giving and receiving feedback
  • Documentation and reporting

PILLAR 3: TEACHING & LEARNING STRATEGIES

  • Apply adult learning principles.
  • Conduct bedside teaching effectively.
  • Facilitate self-directed learning.
  • Learning styles (VARK)
  • Clinical teaching models (One-Minute Preceptor, SNAPPS, Demonstrate–Return demo, Teach-back)
  • Competency-based learning
  • Motivation and engagement strategies

PILLAR 4: CLINICAL SUPERVISION & SUPPPORT

  • Provide safe, structured clinical supervision.
  • Identify learner strengths, progress, and challenges.
  • Offer emotional, academic, and practical support.
  • Levels of supervision
  • Creating supportive learning environments
  • Stress and burnout in learners
  • Coaching vs. mentoring
  • Psychological safety

PILLAR 5: ASSESSMENT, EVALUATION & FEEDBACK

  • Conduct fair and objective learner assessments.
  • Use rubrics, checklists, and competency tools effectively.
  • Document learner progress accurately.
  • Formative vs. summative assessment
  • Objective Structured Clinical Evaluation (OSCE)
  • Skills checklists, logbooks
  • Evaluating red flags and unsafe practice
  • Remediation planning

PILLAR 6:LEADERSHIP & ROLE MODELIN

  • Demonstrate leadership qualities that inspire learners.
  • Promote teamwork, accountability, and professionalism.
  • Encourage critical thinking and decision-making.
  • Leadership styles in clinical settings
  • Delegation & prioritization
  • Team dynamics
  • Role modeling and influence
  • Managing conflict respectfully

PILLAR 7: CLINICAL GOVERNANCE, QUALITY & SAFETY

  • Ensure learner practice aligns with safety and quality standards.
  • Identify risks, incidents, and unsafe practice.
  • Promote continuous improvement.
  • Patient safety principles
  • Infection prevention & control
  • Risk identification and reporting (adverse events, near misses)
  • Policies, protocols & SOP compliance
  • Quality improvement culture
  • Ethical and legal considerations (SANC, duty to report)

PG Dip Occupational Health Nurse Specialist - Occupational Health Nursing

CPUT, Cape Town, South Africa
01.2022 - 12.2023
  • Occupational Health Theory — understanding work-related health risks, epidemiology.
  • Ergonomics — design of work, preventing musculoskeletal injuries.
  • Pharmacology — pertains to health among workers and scope assess.
  • Health Services Management — deliver occupational health services within organisations.
  • Risk Assessment & Surveillance — health risk assessments, biological monitoring, health surveillance.
  • Psychosocial Issues — stress, mental health, social dimensions of work.
  • Occupational Hygiene — exposure to chemical, physical, biological hazards.
  • Toxicology — principles of toxic exposure, how to manage.
  • Legal / Policy — OSH legislation, labour law, worker rights.
  • Research Methods — designing research, doing health-workplace studies which further be of value in a thesis.
  • Practical Clinical Component — workplace visits, case studies, health promotion, rehabilitation in occupational settings.

B-Tech Course R425 - Health Sciences

CPUT, WCCN, Cape Town, South Africa
01.2010 - 12.2013

Registered Professional nurse four years programmed trained in community health,

psychiatry

and midwifery.

  • Academic Literacy
  • Health Development & Primary Health
  • Clinical Nursing Practice
  • Fundamentals Of Nursing
  • Applied Microbiology
  • Biological & Natural Sciences
  • Professional Practice :
  • Clinical Nursing Practice
  • Health Development & Primary Health
  • Applied Microbiology
  • Biological & Natural Sciences
  • Professional Practice
  • Communicable Diseases
  • Child Health
  • Pharmacology For Nurses
  • Applied Social Science
  • Communicable Diseases
  • Medical Surgical Nursing
  • Pharmacology For Nurses
  • Medical Surgical Nursing
  • Unit Management
  • Community Nursing Science
  • Psychiatric Nursing
  • Psycho Social Intervention
  • Counsel Survivors Of Abuse, Neglect, Violence
  • Midwifery 1a (PRENATAL CARE)
  • Midwifery1b (INTRA-PARTUM CARE)
  • Research Methods & Techniques
  • Facility Management
  • Midwifery (OBSTETRIC EMERGENCY)
  • Midwifery (POST-PARTUM CARE)

Exercise To Music Fitness Trainer - Health And Physical Fitness

YMCA , United Arab Emirates
01.2007 - 01.2008

YMCA - ETM QUALIFICATION

To equip learners with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to plan, teach, evaluate safe, effective, and enjoyable for groups.

INTRODUCTION TO EXERCISE TO MUSIC

  • Understand the role of an Exercise-to-Music instructor.
  • Identify industry standards, professional expectations, and legal responsibilities.
  • History of ETM and group fitness
  • Professional roles & conduct
  • Industry bodies and certification requirements
  • Class types (aerobic, conditioning, dance-based, HIIT-to-music

2. ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY

  • Understand how the body responds to exercise and movement.
  • Skeletal system
  • Muscular system
  • Energy systems
  • Cardiovascular and respiratory function
  • Warm-up and cool-down physiology
  • Injury prevention

3. PRINCIPLES OF TRAINING AND PROGRAM DESIGN

  • Apply exercise science to create well-structured classes.
  • FITT principles
  • Overload, progression, regression
  • Intensity monitoring (RPE, talk test, HR)
  • Adapting for special populations
  • Designing aerobic blocks, intervals, peak tracks and recovery tracks

4.MUSIC THEORY AND APPLICATION TO FITNESS

  • Use music effectively to guide movement, pace, and motivation.
  • Beats, phrasing, tempo (BPM)
  • Matching choreography to music
  • Cueing to the beat
  • Music licensing & copyright
  • Counting 32-beat phrasing
  • Synchronising movement to tempo
  • Music editing basics

5.TEACHING SKILLS AND CUEING TECHNIQUES

  • Deliver safe, clear, motivating instruction during a class.
  • Verbal and non-verbal cueing
  • Layering cues
  • Demonstration technique
  • Coaching, motivation & energy
  • Positioning and visibility
  • Inclusive language
  • Cueing drills
  • Teaching 8-count and 32-count blocks
  • Layering movement progressions

6. CHOREOGRAPHY DEVELOPMENT

  • Build and teach structured choreographed routines to music.
  • Basic moves and variations
  • Low-impact and high-impact options
  • Teaching combinations
  • Using add-on, pyramid, and template methods
  • Movement creativity, flow, transitions
  • Creating 3–5 minute sequences
  • Delivering choreographed tracks
  • Adapting choreography for ability levels

7. CLASS PLANNING AND STRUCTURE

  • Create full class plans that are safe, progressive, and music-aligned.

TYPICAL STRUCTURED SESSION

  • Matching track progression with class intensity
  • Safety considerations for group settings
  • Planning for different class types (dance cardio, step, circuits-to-music, toning-to-music)

8. SAFETY SCREEN & RISK MANAGEMENT

  • Ensure participant safety throughout the class.
  • PAR-Q and screening basics
  • Contraindications
  • Environment safety (floor, space, equipment)
  • Emergency procedures
  • Modifications for special populations

9. OBSERVATION, ASSESSMENT, FEEDBACK

  • Evaluate learner performance and reflect on teaching skills.
  • Peer observation
  • Self-reflection
  • Corrective coaching
  • Using YMCA assessment criteria

10. PRACTICA ASSESSMENTS

TEACH FULL EXERCISE TO MUSIC CLASS

  • 45–60 minutes
  • Demonstrate cueing, safety, choreography, and music synchronization
  • written segments
  • Session plan
  • Risk assessment
  • Music list & BPM breakdown
  • Choreography notes

Skills

Critical Thinking

Certification

ACLS Provider. American Heart Assoc. 2019-08-08

References

  • Ms., Cookson, Operational Night Manager, 021 840 6618, 076 682 8174, BPPH
  • MS, Goodheart, Operational Manager, 021 9181936, 021 9181937, KBH
  • MS, Swartbooi, Operational Manager, 021 6805920, RMC

TRAINING DETAILS

  • KTU ONLINE LEARNING
  • APC COVID-19: Clinical management July 2020
  • PACK western cape Covid-19 third edition June 2020
  • PACK 2020 western cape update July 2020
  • PACK Global COVID-19: PPE, health worker exposure and occupational stress June 2020
  • KARL BREMER HOSPITAL July 2015
  • Training Name: Clinicom Systems
  • MOWBRAY MATERNITY HOSPITAL March-November 2014
  • Training Name: Perinatal Induction programmed (PEP)
  • : Intradermal BCG vaccination February 2014
  • : Lactation Management February 2014
  • MEIRC TRAINING INSTITUTE February 2007
  • Training Name: Implementing & Managing Customer Complaints Systems
  • BTS-British Training Solutions September 2005-2006
  • Aerobics Instructor Course
  • Training Name: Exercise to Music
  • Wild Wadi Water Park January 2003-February 2004
  • Training Name: Team Leader Assistant Manager
  • The Emirates Tower Hotel April 2003-May 2003
  • Training Name: Banqueting Training
  • Wild Wadi Water Park February 2003-August 2005
  • Training Name: Fish Philosophy –choose your attitude, Make their day, play, be there, Customer service.

LEARNING PROJECTORY

  • CPUT/ UNIVERSITY OF STELLENBOSCH Primary Health Management 2026/27
  • UDEMY Professional Counselling Diploma course
  • ALLISON Currently participating in:
  • Diploma in Nursing leadership and care management
  • Marketing and branding within company
  • Diploma in operations management
  • Mental health studies - understanding behavior, burnout and depression
  • Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace culture

Hobbies

I embrace the life of being an athlete which takes me from open water swims from robben island to trail running in mountains sometimes getting a tad lost to chasing the dream of one day participating in the ironman series 70.3. My background in exercise to music has further allowed me to dance in ballroom and latin as a competitor despite only in the silver category it remains something I enjoy. Overall I have a love for people...community, something i inherently learnt  from my recently late father. A passion to see others reach their very best and celebrate in the achievements no matter how great or small. When someone has come across your path my hope is they leave better than when they came. We are all a work in progress.

Work Availability

monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Accomplishments

  • Resolved product issue through consumer testing.
  • Supervised team of 85 staff members.
  • Collaborated with team of 50 in the development of Mass community immunization project
  • Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.
  • Achieved higher compliance by completing client wellness and support systems with accuracy and efficiency.

Affiliations

  • CAPE PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
  • WESTERN CAPE COLLEGE OF NURSING
  • UNIVERSITY OF WESTERNN CAPE
  • PHOENIX OPEN WATER SWIMMING CLUB SA.
  • SOUTH AFRICAN LIFESAVING
  • SOUTH AFRICAN NURSING COUNCIL
  • PHAMBILI COMMUNITY DELVEOPMENT
  • WESTERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
  • TECH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

Software

MICROSOFT WORD

MICROSOFT EXCEL

CANVA

SPEED TYPING

Languages

English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Afrikaans
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Spanish
Intermediate (B1)
Russian
Elementary (A2)
French
Beginner (A1)

Interests

WELLNESS AND FITNESS

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

TRIATHALONS

DANCING LATIN

MUSIC DIFFERENT GENRES

ARTS AND CRAFTS, DESIGNS

INTERIOR DECORATING AND FASHION DESIGN

Timeline

UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN CAPE - EDUCATION, PRECEPTORSHIP CERTIFICATION
07.2025 - 07.2025
TECH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY - EXECUTIVE MASTERS DEGREE IN MBA NURSING MANAGEMENT, Nursing Leadership And Management
06.2025 - 07.2026
Operational Nursing Manager - Phambili Community Development (NGO SECTOR)
12.2024 - Current
CPUT - PG Dip Occupational Health Nurse Specialist, Occupational Health Nursing
01.2022 - 12.2023
Registered Professional Nurse - Busamed Paardevlei Private Hospital
03.2017 - 06.2024
Professional Nurse - Karl Bremer Hospital
07.2015 - 02.2017
Midwife - Nursing Agencies & Private Sector
02.2015 - Current
Community Service Professional Nurse - Mowbray Maternity Hospital
02.2014 - 01.2015
CPUT, WCCN - B-Tech Course R425, Health Sciences
01.2010 - 12.2013
Senior LTS instructor and baby swim instructor - Cape Otters Swim School
03.2008 - 06.2012
Senior Lifeguard - City of Cape Town (Sports & Recreation)
01.2008 - 12.2018
YMCA - Exercise To Music Fitness Trainer, Health And Physical Fitness
01.2007 - 01.2008
Rescuer/guest relations/ activities coordinator - Dubai Ladies Club
08.2005 - 12.2007
Rescuer - Jumeirah International
04.2001 - 08.2005
Lifeguard/ Squad Leader - Lifesaving Western Province
ILSE THEYS WOODWARDOPERATIONAL NURSING MANAGER