VA Connect

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Human Resources Manager of SafetySA

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

SafetySA, through its AssureCloud and SafetyCloud divisions, provides industry-leading Testing, Inspection, Certification (TIC), and Training solutions to ensure food safety, environmental health, and workplace compliance across Africa and the Middle East

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire VA Connect to accomplish?

• Executive support to CEO
• Executive support to EXCO Team

SOLUTION

How did you find VA Connect?

Online Search

Why did you select VA Connect over others?

Great culture fit

How many teammates from VA Connect were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

The Executive PA plays a pivotal role in supporting the Executive Committee (EXCO) and ensuring the smooth coordination of high-level administrative and operational functions. This role requires discretion, precision, and proactive planning to uphold executive efficiency and company standards.

EXCO Support & Coordination:

Manage complex calendars, schedule meetings, and ensure timely communication across executive stakeholders.
Prepare agendas, take minutes, and follow up on action items for EXCO meetings.
Travel & Logistics Management:

Arrange all domestic and international travel for EXCO members, including flights, accommodation, transfers, and visa support.
Ensure seamless itineraries aligned with business objectives and personal preferences.
Event & Function Planning:

Organize and execute internal and external events, including EXCO functions, strategic workshops, and stakeholder engagements.
Liaise with vendors, venues, and service providers to deliver high-quality experiences within budget.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

A successful Executive Assistant is measured by their ability to streamline executive operations, protect leadership time, and ensure seamless coordination across strategic priorities. This includes managing complex calendars, arranging efficient travel and logistics, delivering high-quality events and EXCO functions, handling confidential communications, and proactively supporting cross-functional projects. Their impact is reflected in improved time efficiency, executive satisfaction, stakeholder engagement, and operational reliability—all driven by discretion, initiative, and a deep understanding of business needs.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Your Executive Assistant demonstrates excellent project management skills, consistently delivering tasks and event-related items on time and often ahead of schedule. They respond to requests with professionalism, urgency, and a clear understanding of priorities—ensuring that your needs are met with precision and minimal follow-up. Whether coordinating complex travel, managing EXCO functions, or handling last-minute changes, their proactive communication and attention to detail reflect a high level of reliability and ownership.

What was your primary form of communication with VA Connect?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

What’s most impressive about this Executive Assistant is how seamlessly she has integrated into our team despite being placed virtually through an external provider. She has fully embraced our company culture, communicates with the same commitment and energy as an in-house team member, and consistently shows up with a “one-team” mindset. Her dedication is so complete that we often forget she supports other clients—her focus, responsiveness, and sense of ownership make her feel like a permanent and indispensable part of our leadership ecosystem

Are there any areas for improvement or something VA Connect could have done differently?

no

UPDATED REVIEW

This review was published on December 2, 2025.

Manager, Safety SA
Other industries

Johannesburg, South Africa

501-1,000

Oct 2021 - Ongoing

$10,000 to $49,999

Project summary
VA Connect provides virtual assistant services for a risk management company. The team's work includes meeting and calendar management, document support, office coordination, and hosting services.

Feedback summary
VA Connect's work has improved the client's efficiency, team wellbeing, and happiness by 100%. VA Connect excels in project management and primarily communicates through virtual meetings. Moreover, the client has found the team to be professional, timely, and responsible.
BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm a manager at SafetySA, a company that delivers safety, risk management, and compliance solutions to various industries, helping businesses create safer, smarter, and more human-centered environments.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with VA Connect?

We needed additional professionals.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

VA Connect provides us with virtual assistant services. The team handles meeting and calendar management, including setting up meetings, sending reminders, and keeping calendars updated. They also provide document support by creating, formatting, and proofreading simple documents, such as emails and meeting notes. Additionally, VA Connect assists with office coordination, including helping with office supplies, handling incoming calls, and maintaining file order. The team also provides hosting services.

What is the team composition?

We work with one teammate from VA Connect.

How did you come to work with VA Connect?

We found them through a referral. We chose them over other options because they had high ratings.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in October 2021, and the engagement is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

VA Connect's work has improved our efficiency, team wellbeing, and happiness by 100%. We're close teammates.

How did VA Connect perform from a project management standpoint?

Their project management is great. We primarily communicate through virtual meetings.

What did you find most impressive about them?

VA Connect is professional, on time, and responsible.

Are there any areas they could improve?

There's nothing they need to improve.

STAR RATINGS
Overall rating: 5

Quality: 5

Cost: 5

Schedule: 5

Willing to refer: 5

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Marketing Manager of char.gy

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We are an electric vehicle charge point operator

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire VA Connect to accomplish?

• Marketing
• Digital
• Teamwork

SOLUTION

How did you find VA Connect?

Referral

Why did you select VA Connect over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from VA Connect were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

We hired a digital marketing assistant through VA connect to help us improve our digitial marketing, including setting up stronger analytics and reporting capabilities, and helping with on-site SEO. Gaining confidence, our digital marketing assistant provided by VA connect is now helping to plan and execute our digital marketing strategy for FY25/26. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

New tools and capabilities set up

Current gaps/issues identified

SEO improvement (on-site)

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

The project manamgent of our digitial marketing assistant has been very conciencious. They like to know exactly what is asked of them, a timeline for delivery and clear outcomes expected. With this they deliver on time, and to expectation. Its also important, and a big part of successful project management, that our VA feels comfortable and has time alloted with our internal team to ask questions and contribute. 

What was your primary form of communication with VA Connect?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

VA Connect is extremely helpful and responsive. They really try to understand what the client is looking for, and are quick to address issues when they arise. 

Are there any areas for improvement or something VA Connect could have done differently?

Whilst VA connect do an overall great job at finding the 'Fit'. One area of improvement would be better screening in advance of client interviews. Time is often a limited resource for clients, and it can be frustrating if candidates dont meet the expected criteria/job description at interview. 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Managing Director of Karmak Creative

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We do digital marketing and bespoke software solutions

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire VA Connect to accomplish?

• Find Software Engineers
• Find a roject Manager
• Deliver project on time

SOLUTION

How did you find VA Connect?

Online Search

Why did you select VA Connect over others?

• High ratings
• Pricing fits our budget
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from VA Connect were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Software Engineer & Project Manager: Combined Scope of Work
1. Project Initiation and Planning

• Collaborate with stakeholders to define project objectives, scope, and success criteria.
• Create a detailed project plan with milestones and deadlines.
• Allocate necessary resources.
• Define software requirements and technical specifications.

2. Staff Recruitment and Onboarding

• Work closely with HR or external agencies to find remote software developers.
• Define job descriptions, qualifications, and expectations for each role.
• Conduct interviews and make hiring decisions.
• Facilitate onboarding for new team members.

3. Design and Architecture (Software Engineer)

• Create high-level and detailed software designs.
• Choose appropriate architectural patterns (e.g., MVC, microservices).
• Define data models, APIs, and system components.

4. Coding and Implementation (Software Engineer)

• Write clean, efficient, and maintainable code.
• Develop software components using relevant programming languages.
• Implement unit tests and ensure code quality.

5. Project Execution and Monitoring (Project Manager)

• Oversee project execution and team collaboration.
• Monitor progress, identify bottlenecks, and address issues promptly.
• Implement project management tools for efficient collaboration.

6. Testing and Quality Assurance (Software Engineer)

• Conduct unit testing, integration testing, and system testing.
• Debug and fix issues identified during testing.
• Collaborate with QA engineers to ensure software quality.

7. Deliverable Management (Project Manager)

• Define key project deliverables (software modules, documentation, reports).
• Ensure timely completion by the remote team.
• Review and approve work before submission to stakeholders.

8. Communication and Reporting (Project Manager)

• Regularly update stakeholders on project status, risks, and achievements.
• Facilitate team meetings, stand-ups, and progress reviews.
• Escalate critical issues to senior management as needed.

9. Risk Mitigation and Problem Solving (Project Manager)

• Proactively identify risks (technical, resource-related, etc.) and develop mitigation strategies.
• Troubleshoot challenges faced by the remote team.
• Foster a positive team environment, motivating staff to overcome obstacles.

10. Documentation and Knowledge Transfer (Software Engineer)

• Create technical documentation (architecture diagrams, API documentation).
• Share knowledge with team members and provide training if needed.

11. Maintenance and Support (Software Engineer)

• Address bug fixes and enhancements.
• Provide ongoing support to end-users.
• Stay updated with industry trends and best practices.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Everything ran smooth. They found people we could not believe. VAConnect helped us integrate the new members and checkedin on the regular to confirm "happiness". They've ensured a very pleasant experience for us.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

• All milestones were reached succesfully.
• All responses were very acceptable 

What was your primary form of communication with VA Connect?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Karen and her teams ability to fid fantastic people and skills

Are there any areas for improvement or something VA Connect could have done differently?

Onboarding videos - explination videos for 1st time clients. They have a good system, sometimes I like to know what is next before next happens

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Business Owner of Hind Afife

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Direct selling 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire VA Connect to accomplish?

• Socialmedia
• Content creation
• Dms

SOLUTION

How did you find VA Connect?

Referral

Why did you select VA Connect over others?

Referred to me

How many teammates from VA Connect were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Content 
social media 
graphics 
dm

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

I can not say exactly 
consistent on s m 

more sales 

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Yes 

What was your primary form of communication with VA Connect?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Finding the right person very  quickly 
They're responsive and professional.
great connection with karen and her husband 

Are there any areas for improvement or something VA Connect could have done differently?

Maybe create more ways to help us 
ideas 
improvement in my process 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Director of Mutiny Brands and Services T/A Jasper's Catering

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Corporate catering and Events - deliver food and drinks to offices in the UK.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire VA Connect to accomplish?

• To find staff that will help our business grow
• To ensure customer service & admin is always 100%

SOLUTION

How did you find VA Connect?

Old company

Why did you select VA Connect over others?

Met Karen in an old business

How many teammates from VA Connect were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

• Customer service:
  • Answering phones
  • Dealing with queries, complaints, orders
• Sales:
  • Outbound dialling to find new business 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The business growing - new customers coming on board and spending with us.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

This is ongoing.

We hired two previous team members to come onto our books on a full time basis. 

What was your primary form of communication with VA Connect?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

We really work well with Karen; she has been so helpful in the growth of our new business. We are enjoying meeting new members of the team too. Laurez is a welcome addtion. 

Are there any areas for improvement or something VA Connect could have done differently?

We are working on this ongoing currently.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the COO/CFO of CodingIT

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Technology Advisory and Development

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire VA Connect to accomplish?
Hire great employees in South Africa

SOLUTION

How did you find VA Connect?

Online Search

Why did you select VA Connect over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Good value for cost

How many teammates from VA Connect were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Hire employees in South Africa

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We managed to hire a great Marketing Associate and Senior Developer. 

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

VA Connect was very responsive, and they supplied us with CVs until we found that perfect fit. 

What was your primary form of communication with VA Connect?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

As a UK based business we could hire employees that have been prescreened in South Africa. 

Are there any areas for improvement or something VA Connect could have done differently?

None noted

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

 I am the Founder & Advocate of a legal company 

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We are a boutique law firm, serving clients in Africa and globally.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire VA Connect to accomplish?

Administrative and legal support at an executive level

SOLUTION

How did you find VA Connect?

Online Search

Why did you select VA Connect over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from VA Connect were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

• Administrative Support: Well-organized calendars, managed correspondence, and systematic document filing.
• Document Preparation and Drafting: Professionally prepared legal documents, letters, and terms of engagement.
• File and Client Management: Organized client files and prompt, professional responses to client inquiries.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The project with VA Connect led to significant improvements in several key areas, including enhanced administrative efficiency, proactive task management, greater accuracy in document preparation, and timely delivery of legal documents. Additionally, the successful completion of various projects and effective handling of inquiries and ad hoc tasks contributed to streamlining operations at Anne Babu & Company, reflecting overall progress and success.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

The team is well organized, formulates to-do lists, communicates on each task, and consistently meets deadlines.

What was your primary form of communication with VA Connect?

Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

VA Connects professionalism and good rapport with clients

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Director of Lime Talent

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

FMCG Recruitment Specialists

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire VA Connect to accomplish?

• Ongoing VA support

SOLUTION

How did you find VA Connect?

Online Search

Why did you select VA Connect over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Other

How many teammates from VA Connect were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Uploading job posts to our website Researching target companies Creating and formatting presentations

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The work we need is completed to a high standard on a weekly basis with minimum input required from our team

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

we would usually do a call or VC before starting a new project so we can screenshare exactly what needs to be done. Once we've done this then projects are delivered weekly and on time

What was your primary form of communication with VA Connect?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They are straightforward, easy to deal with, and once up and running are fully self-managing.

Are there any areas for improvement or something VA Connect could have done differently?

The first VA we hired struggled with the work but the business replaced her quickly and we couldn't be more happy with the person we've had since May