Every beautiful chapter must come to an end

It doesn’t get more real than this, today officially marks the end of my 14-year journey at the SABC. A career so rich, so transformative, that words barely do it justice.? If ever there was a story of divine orchestration, this is it. The Almighty used the SABC not just to sustain me, but as the compass that charted the course of my destiny.

Over the years, I've had the privilege of being in the same rooms and spaces as presidents and some of the world’s most prominent figures. From Oprah and Obama to Beyoncé, just to name a few. I’ve also had access to the most significant events in history, witnessing firsthand crucial moments as they unfold. These incredible experiences have been made possible by the doors that the SABC opened for me.

My very first flight and hotel experience was a business trip, courtesy of the SABC. In fact, every "first" in my adult life – from the milestones I’ve achieved to the dreams I’ve been able to make a reality, have the SABC’s fingerprints all over them. But let’s park the material perks for a moment.

The true treasure has been the learning and transformative growth I've experienced at the public broadcaster.? I joined the SABC in 2010 as an intern and have held key roles, including Media Relations Manager in the office of the SABC Spokesperson. I leave the organisation as an Internal Communications Manager responsible for driving employee engagement and change management following a critical organisational transition phase.

The SABC didn’t just teach me to swim, it threw me into deep waters and equipped me with the tools to master the art of synchronised communication. Instead of sinking, I learned to move with grace, precision, and confidence in the vast ocean of corporate storytelling.? It wasn’t just about staying afloat, it was about learning to lead, inspire, and orchestrate powerful narratives in uncharted waters. Today, I can proudly call myself the Beyoncé of Communication - unapologetically bold, endlessly creative, and always ready to own the stage. I have worked under extraordinary leaders who did not only believe in my capabilities but also empowered me to harmonise strategy, captivate audiences, and shine under pressure.

Each role I stepped into taught me resilience and that true victory lies in bringing others along, not by force, but by inspiring belief and a sense of belonging even during the most uncertain times.

The SABC Annual Report 2021 stands out as one of the most defining projects of my career. No project has ever demanded more of me, both professionally and personally. I have held onto a few cherished copies of that report. It will forever symbolise the heights that can be reached when hard work, unwavering faith, and relentless determination converge. Beyond its pages, it holds the story of my sweat, sleepless nights and the lessons I gained in navigating one of the toughest and demanding periods of my career.? To me, It wasn’t just another project, it was a journey that tested my limits and reaffirmed what perseverance can produce. Completing that project felt like reaching the summit of a mountain I wasn’t sure I could ever climb, but every step was worth it. And whenever I flip through its pages, I am reminded that even the most daunting challenges can lead to growth and to some of our proudest achievements.

And lastly, there were the people, the family I never knew I needed. Over the years, I’ve gained not just colleagues but brothers and sisters. Together, we shared laughter that lightened heavy days and stood shoulder-to-shoulder amidst deadlines and key deliverables.? My colleagues became the heart of my journey, serving as a reminder that the right people can turn even the most demanding environments into places that feel like home.

As I bid farewell to the place that challenged, stretched, and ultimately shaped me, I leave with immense gratitude and a full heart. My parting words? Phakama SABC! Rise with strength, soar with purpose, and let your brilliance reach new heights so you can continue to transform more lives, like you did mine????

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