Tinashe Chikandamina is a Senior Residential Care Worker at The Grigg, dedicated to creating safe and supportive environments for young people. Having gained experience across several homes, including Lilac Lodge, Holly Lodge, and The Sycamores, she has developed a genuine passion for the work we do at Esland. In her role, Tinashe provides consistent care and guidance, helping young people grow and thrive through positive experiences, engaging activities, and the development of respectful and trusting relationships.

Hi, my name is Tinashe Chikandamina, and I’m a Senior Residential Care Worker at The Grigg.

My journey so far

Over the past few years, my path in residential care has taken me through several homes, each with its own challenges and rewards. I began my journey at Lilac Lodge, a solo placement, where I focused on building strong working relationships with both the young person and my colleagues.

From there, I moved to Holly Lodge, a home with two young people receiving one-to-one support, and a team that quickly showed me the importance of collaboration and trust.

When I was asked to go and support The Sycamores, I truly fell in love with the work we do. Every day was challenging, but those very challenges reminded me why this role matters so deeply. Eventually, I returned to Holly Lodge before moving permanently to The Grigg, where I’ve been for the past year.

Finding purpose in the challenges

What keeps me going in this job is the balance of tough days and rewarding ones. Some moments test your resilience, but then there are times when you see the impact your team has had on a young person’s progress, and it makes every hurdle worthwhile. I’ve learned that patience and persistence are key, not just for the young people, but for ourselves as staff too.

I also believe in investing in my colleagues as much as I do in young people. When the team is strong, respectful, and supportive, the young people notice, and they benefit from seeing those positive relationships in action.

This role has given me more confidence than I ever thought I’d have. I no longer fear making mistakes, and I’ve realised that leadership doesn’t mean having all the answers. In fact, it often means letting others take the lead when their strengths shine. To me, a person’s true value is measured by what we represent to those around us.

The joy in everyday moments

A typical week begins with a coffee and checking in with my colleagues. It might sound simple, but those small acts of connection set the tone for the day. I love the moments that bring laughter, like settling time at night, when we play games and joke around, ensuring everyone ends the day on a happy note.

I also thrive on activities, especially when there’s a competitive edge. I enjoy winning, but what I enjoy more is seeing young people push themselves, sometimes even out-competing us. It’s in those moments of play and teamwork that real bonds are formed.

If I had one message for anyone considering this job, it would be this: go for it but go in with patience and resilience. There will be days that stretch you, but there will also be days filled with fun, laughter, and a deep sense of purpose. Every child deserves a shot at happiness, and that journey begins with you.