Showing up, listening and building human-centered HR at SanlamAllianz

My name is Mia Muuaza, and I currently serve as a junior human resources business partner.

I believe empowerment starts with something very simple: showing up. Sometimes that means walking into someone’s office just to check how they’re really doing. Sometimes it means sitting with an issue longer than expected, because people don’t come with manuals. I’m flexible like that. To me, empowerment isn’t hidden in complicated policies or fancy HR language. It lives in listening, in creating space where employees feel heard, respected, and trusted. When people feel seen and supported, productivity doesn’t need to be forced; it shows up naturally.

Over the years, we’ve called this function many names: manpower, labour, personnel management, human resources, human capital, people, talent and business partners.

Different names, same heartbeat. HR is the bridge between business goals and human well-being. At SanlamAllianz HR is compliant and compassionate. We strategise and empathise. We make sure labour laws are followed, talent is grown, performance is managed, and culture is protected. HR isn’t about rules for the sake of rules; it’s about people with purpose. In many ways, it’s the heart of the organisation. Beyond policies, we believe wellness truly matters. Wellness days are intentional because people aren’t machines, and when people are well, they show up better.

Welcoming a new employee is one of the most underrated moments in a workplace.

First impressions stay. Always. A proper onboarding process matters, yes, but so does a warm smile, a genuine welcome, clear expectations, real introductions (especially to executive management), and consistent support. Belonging doesn’t happen by accident. It starts on day one.

Without HR, organisations can face unhappy employees, high turnover, confusion, and legal exposure. HR brings structure, fairness, and alignment, protecting both the business and the people who keep it alive.

A typical day for a Junior HR Business Partner is never the same. One moment it’s employee queries, the next it’s recruitment, payroll, wellbeing initiatives, or meetings with management.

HR demands adaptability, emotional intelligence and the ability to solve problems that don’t always come with clear answers.

There’s a saying: “Treat others the way you would like to be treated.” For me, that’s the foundation of a positive work environment: consistency, fairness and open communication.

Over the years, we’ve called this function many names: manpower, labour, personnel management, human resources, human capital, people, talent, business partners. Different names, same heartbeat. HR is the bridge between business goals and human well-being. At SanlamAllianz HR is compliant and compassionate. We strategise and empathise. We make sure labour laws are followed, talent is grown, performance is managed, and culture is protected. HR isn’t about rules for the sake of rules; it’s about people with purpose. In many ways, it’s the heart of the organisation. Beyond policies, we believe wellness truly matters. Wellness days are intentional because people aren’t machines, and when people are well, they show up better.