Whatshot
A Fond Farewell After 23 Years at La Lucia Mall
A Fond Farewell After 23 Years at La Lucia Mall
A Fond Farewell After 23 Years at La Lucia Mall
After more than two decades at the helm of one of the North Coast's much loved shopping destinations, La Lucia Mall Centre Manager Vanessa Blevins is preparing to say goodbye to a place that has become far more than just a workplace.
Vanessa joined La Lucia Mall in May 2003, initially seeing the position as a career opportunity. Twenty three years later, she leaves with a lifetime of memories, friendships and a deep connection to the community that has grown around the mall.
"What started in May 2003 as a career opportunity became so much more," Vanessa says. "La Lucia Mall has been a place of growth, friendship, community, and countless special memories for my family and I."
During her years at La Lucia Mall, Vanessa has been part of the many chapters that have shaped the centre and its relationship with the surrounding community. From celebrating milestones and welcoming new tenants to navigating challenges along the way, her journey has been closely intertwined with the people who make the mall what it is.
Her farewell is therefore not simply about leaving a job, but about saying goodbye to a community she has come to know so well.
"To our shoppers, tenants, stakeholders, service providers, and everyone who has been part of this journey, thank you," she says. "Your support, loyalty, and partnership have helped make La Lucia Mall the exceptional place it is today."
Now, Vanessa is heading south to begin an exciting new chapter in Cape Town. While there is understandably sadness in saying goodbye, there is also gratitude for everything the past 23 years have brought.
"I leave with immense gratitude, wonderful memories, and many valued friendships," she says.
And perhaps most importantly, Vanessa leaves knowing that the mall she has helped nurture is in good hands.
"Our dedicated Centre Management Team, supported by committed service providers remains passionate about this mall and its future," she says. "I have every confidence that La Lucia Mall will continue to grow from strength to strength."
For Vanessa, 23 years at La Lucia Mall may be coming to an end, but the friendships and memories created along the way will undoubtedly travel with her.
The La Lucia community wishes her well as she turns the page and begins her next adventure in Cape Town.