I've been a member of Wowos for over a decade. In that time, I've served as an ordinary member, and at times, I've been requested by MyFounder and other members to carry extra duties. I've gone long spells without any recognition, and other times; I've blushed from the showers of praise from fellow members. I've met, in person or via a pen, many-a-great person. Some people came, and some people went. But through it all, I've grown as a person and a professional.
I was thinking of this as I was going through my archives. I thought of the dinners we shared and the arguments we had. I thought of members past and present, and a tear hung on my cheeks. I remembered how a long-term friend and dear brother introduced me to the group, Ramaisa Khoanyane. How we celebrated at TKs home at some point. How I've had vociferous fights with Masixole Sidiya, Zodwa Nako, Muzi Ngema and Vatiswa Motaung (Buka). I have thought about how we've struggled to find common ground with Jabu Mtsweni and how Wonga Ntshinga would get under one's skin to push for a more honest comment. I've thought about how myself and Muzi Ngema would fight, and yet both of us remained members of this lovely cohort. I've been inspired by Zibuse L. Kunene and Celeste Williams. I've spoken to all and sundry, even if I haven't mentioned them by name. But a name that will forever stand out for me will be Siyabulela Mooi.
I've never met Siya in person, but he drove all of us. I remember how we met in Sandton one year and talked about just how annoying he was. I remember myself, TK, Vatiswa and Wonga were there. I remember how we laughed because we were irritated because Siya was driving us in the right direction, and we were just too lazy to follow. From that meeting, if I remember correctly, we decided to sharpen our skills to be better people. I remember registering to study further, and so did TK and Vatiswa, if I'm not mistaken. Siya started Mzangwe Consulting, and we joked about it. We were fired up.
And I think this is where this piece was inspired. 👇👇
I will forever be grateful to be part of this team.
Let's not wait until another member passes before we convene again.
By Ngoato Thamae