Kiara Padayachee

People-focused professional with a strong academic foundation in psychology and hands-on experience in employee wellbeing, counselling, executive support, HR administration, payroll support and events coordination. Experienced in working with diverse individuals across education, wellness, hospitality, security and corporate environments, with a particular strength in communication, emotional intelligence, and organisational support. Passionate about contributing to people-centric, values-driven organisations through effective HR, employee experience, and wellbeing practices.

Events Co-ordinator at The Cape Town Club (2026-03 – 2026-05)

• Served as the primary point of contact for club members, guests and event attendees.
• Planned, coordinated, and executed club events from conception to completion.
• Oversaw event operations and delegated responsibilities to staff members.
• Acted as Floor Manager during events and ensured excellent guest experiences.
• Conducted club tours and presentations for prospective members.

HR Assistant at Human Resources (2026-01 – 2026-03)

• Provided administrative support to the Human Resources Department.
• Assisted with payroll administration and payroll-related documentation.
• Maintained employee records and HR documentation.
• Assisted with completion of employee exit documentation.
• Supported employee queries and general HR operations.

Executive Personal Assistant to CEO at Property Industry (2025-02 – 2025-12)

• Provided high-level administrative and organisational support to the CEO within a fast-paced property environment.
• Coordinated executive meetings, schedules, correspondence, and confidential documentation.
• Liaised with clients and stakeholders, ensuring professional and timely communication.
• Supported pricing discussions and market-related property changes, contributing to informed decision-making.
• Managed sensitive personal and professional matters with discretion and trust.

Specialist Wellness Counsellor (Private Practice – Online) at Self-Employed (2024-07 – Present)

• Delivered online counselling services focused on emotional wellbeing, stress management, and personal development.
• Supported clients through life transitions, workplace stress, anxiety, and interpersonal challenges.
• Applied a holistic, person-centred approach to improve clients' quality of life and coping strategies.
• Maintained ethical standards, client records, and professional boundaries in line with counselling best practice.

Lay Counsellor at Hope House (2023-01 – 2023-11)

• Provided counselling services within a high-school and community counselling centre.
• Supported children, youth, and young adults (ages 5–24) facing emotional, social, and psychological challenges.
• Addressed issues including anxiety, grief, academic pressure, family dynamics, trauma, and self-harm.
• Built trust with diverse individuals and collaborated with educators and support professionals.

Student Lay Counsellor at Stellenbosch University (2022-07 – 2022-10)

• Facilitated group counselling sessions for first-year university students.
• Led weekly online mindfulness and wellbeing sessions.
• Encouraged peer connection, resilience, and a sense of belonging during student transition.

Strategic Business Management Short Course Certificate in Strategic Business Management – University of Cape Town Get Smarter (2025 – 2025)

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychology – Stellenbosch University (2024 – 2024)

Bachelor of Arts in Humanities – Stellenbosch University (2019 – 2021)