The 5th of October is a day dedicated to teachers across the world, it is to express gratitude for their contributions and how they prepare children to face the world. In celebration of this day, a staunch supporter of Mamelodi Sundowns was given an opportunity to select an educator who has played a role in their life. Collen Malatjie from
Tzaneen was the winner, and he chose his high school mentor. Mr. Mampa Nthabeleng Enos, who has been molding learners for the past 22 years in the area of Burgersdorp by teaching Mathematics and Physics. Mr. Enos was afforded the chance by his former learner to be recognized for the work he has done for the past two decades.
In celebration of World Teacher's Day, we wanted to give a special prize to one lucky supporter and a special teacher that they nominated who had an impact on their life! 💛
Congratulations to Collen Malatjie & Mampa Nthapeleng Enos who won replica jerseys! 👆 #Sundowns pic.twitter.com/WDfuEBSCJ5
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) October 5, 2022
World Teachers Day 2022 theme is “The change of education begins with teachers.
“When I saw the competition on the club’s social media I took a chance, I did not anticipate that I would win and when I got the call, I was over the moon as I could give flowers to the man that had a positive role in my life,” said Malatjie.
“I am grateful for the positive impact he had on me. I still recall how he was a father figure to me whilst I was in high school and how he always pushed me. I managed to get good grades and went on to further my studies at University of Limpopo by studying BSc in Computer Science at undergraduate level. I am currently pursuing a Doctor of
Philosophy in Applied Math at the same institution.”
Mr. Enos began his teaching career back in 2001, he is currently a principal and heads up four schools in his area, while he still specializes in math and physics. The renowned teacher acknowledged his past learner’s admiration of the role his teaching career has played in his life, he said: “This means a lot, to be shown love by a former learner is
something rare and I also want to applaud Masandawana for this initiative.”
“To be paid a visit by this big club in the continent is huge. This club really cares about its supporters and the communities that it has ties with. We are based in the villages and lack of resources is a huge challenge, but when you see pupils that were here making strides in life, that gives joy and inspiration that one is doing a great thing with the kids when their parents entrust them to us”, said Mr. Enos whilst showing how emotionally touched by the gesture.
He further went on to say “teaching is a passion to me, I don’t see it as a job but a calling because I do it Monday to Monday [with] no rest. Colin was one of those kids who came from poverty-stricken homes, but he showed commitment and that is something that has enabled him to progress in life. To hear him say that he is in the process of obtaining a PHD qualification brings excitement to me, and I hope other learners will take this as a sign that do not let your surroundings deter you in what you want to achieve.”
Malatjie spoke also about his love for the Brazilians, “I have been supporting the team since 1996, it was during that time of Raphael Chukwu, Joel Masilela just to name a few [players] that made me love the club. Also, the brand of football has always been
beautiful to watch and not forgetting the trophies that we have been winning.”
“The previous season was a momentous one as we won the treble. I still want us to bring the CAF Champions League trophy back to Chloorkop. With the new recruited
players I know we will finish on a high and defend all our trophies.”
Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club would like to wish all the teachers across the world an awesome day and may they continue to nurture the future.
