We are thrilled that our fabulous Tajina, who works as a kitchen assistant at The Hollies Care Home in Pontypridd, is a finalist at this year’s prestigious Wales Care Awards 2025.
Tajina was a schoolteacher in Nepal and moved to South Wales in early 2024 and just over a year after arriving in the UK has been shortlisted in the Exceptional Newcomer category. The event is being organised by Care Forum Wales to recognise exceptional work of the unsung frontline heroes in the social care sector.
She will find out Cardiff’s Holland House Hotel on Friday, October 17 if she has won bronze, silver or gold but whatever the award everyone at SilverCrest, especially at the Hollies will be cheering Tajina on!
Tajia said “It means a lot to be nominated. I never expected something like this to happen to me, especially after only being in Wales for such a short time.
“I feel so happy and proud that people see the work I do and think it is worth celebrating. I just try to be kind and helpful every day, and I enjoy being part of the team.
Now living in Cardiff, she says the green valleys of Pontypridd remind her of home back in Nepal, but the transition wasn’t without its challenges.
“At first, it was difficult to understand the accent,” she admits. “I was nervous and kept my head down. But people were so kind and helpful. I’ve learned so much, and now I feel more confident.
Despite working behind the scenes, her gentle nature and strong work ethic quickly made her one of the most loved members of staff and residents.
Although her current role doesn’t require formal registration with Social Care Wales, Tajina is already taking steps toward a future in hands-on care – with hopes of one day training as a nurse.
Deputy Manager Daniell Davies, who nominated her for the award, said: “Just as precious as it is to watch a caterpillar transform into a butterfly, like our Hollies logo, it has been the same watching Tajina blossom from a shy girl into a confident team member.
“While her main responsibilities are in the kitchen, Tajina often steps in to support the domestic team and now contributes to daily staff meetings, offering ideas to improve the experience for residents.
“The nervous, timid lady we met on day one has grown into a confident and capable member of the team. She is a joy to be around and a credit to the home.”
“She always goes the extra mile, “Once, she was asked to cover a shift the same day as a family event. She didn’t hesitate – she just asked her husband to handle the gathering and came in to work. She didn’t even tell us that she had a prior event, she genuinely sees helping as an honour.”
Good luck Tajina from all at SilverCrest
