Inspiring Women SUMMER 2020

nothing. We all know how it worked out and we all know
it was a hard decision for the FAWCO Board to make, but
it was the only right decision that could be made.
Tell us about a typical day “FAWCO COVID-19” day for
you. PATRICIA: During the two-week period before the
start of the conference, we were holding conference
calls with the FAWCO Board about whether the Interim
Meeting should be cancelled or not. We had been
receiving emails from attendees from countries further
away, letting us know that they would have to cancel
due to travel advisories/restrictions in their respective
countries or because they themselves belonged to the
Corona virus risk group.
Shortly before the Interim Meeting would have started,
European countries started issuing their own travel restrictions and closing down borders. As soon
as this started happening, it was crystal clear that this meeting would never take place. After the
FAWCO Board announced the cancellation of the Interim Meeting, I began refunding some
180+ registration and guest fees. Between my work schedule and family life, it took me a period
of over one week to complete the refunds.
ANGIE: We had to cancel quite a few things. For example, the tours that had been planned.
FAWCO took the lead with negotiating with the hotel. Patricia, as the Conference Treasurer, had
the big job of refunding the registration fees. I had more clean-up that needed to be done. All
of the name-tags had already been printed and the badges.
What is the most important thing you have discovered or learned about yourself, others through
your COVID-19 work? PATRICIA: We are all in the same boat. It is amazing how resourceful
people can be in such uncertain times. Also, people are genuinely interested in helping each
other out and helping others make the best of these unchartered waters. You have to take one
day at a time. This too will pass.
ANGIE: Myself, I still have a positive attitude. Others, most people are really flexible with the time
and energy. If you need help, they will try to help any way that they can, even though they have
to do it while social distancing.
What did you do to keep on top of your own mental health during this COVID-19 work? PATRICIA:
I am fortunate that I am able to go to my office and work. Each of us has our own office so we
are able to apply the social distancing concept. At the moment, my customer contact is limited
to phone calls, emails or documents which are sent by post. It helps the monotonous days go by
faster. I also try to refrain from going to certain grocery stores. Sometimes you get the feeling that
others look at you as if you are a walking disease.
ANGIE: I do my Events Planning and my
Foundation work. I have a great pride in
what I do and how I do it. I also read a
lot! I love to read; it is like having a
movie in my mind!
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What 3 things are you looking forward to
doing once the pandemic subsides?
PATRICIA: Travelling, entertaining friends,
going shopping.
ANGIE: Going out to dinner, anywhere
but home, inviting friends over for dinner
and going shopping for something that
is not food!