Public Works' Head Office male staff responded positively as they observed the Men's month on Wednesday 23 July 2019. Dr Gaster Gilbert Sharpley, the Head of Department, ceremoniously graced the gathering under the theme: “The real man smiles in trouble, gathers strength from distress and grows brave by reflection”. It was quite a revelation to note that Dr Sharpley cautioned all in attendance, during his opening address, about the importance of paying respect and patriotism during the singing of the ‘National Anthem’.
He further encouraged the throng to equip themselves in becoming better citizenry that would add value to the public service. “You should make certain targets in life and those targets should improve your life. As government, we need to ensure that we provide service delivery to the people of our province”, he said emphatically. In his concluding remarks, Dr Sharpley encouraged men to keep focus and remain proud to be part of the KZN Department of Public Works’ family circle.
As the Head of Department left the session for another business, the programme unfolded and took another turn. Two brilliant women, Thembi Mazibuko and Niresh Naidoo, were at the centre of the Men’s Imbizo. The duo was so gallant and vibrant such that the surroundings of the Auditorium kept most men gaping, while others mummed and mumbled with words swiftly fade in their locked tongues. It was nature at its best – because of a woman amongst men. The first speaker on the day, Ms Thembi Mazibuko from SASSA, came to the podium. She was quite eloquent, firm, assertive and vocal by nature.
Her delivery passage was on “Women Perspective about Men”. It was not a fantasy but a reality check. Thembi delivered an educational speech that was extraordinary. It was quite exciting and thought provoking to realise that reminded all guests of the state of life and things in the real man’s world. Her revelation was that women feel the comfort of being appreciated, protected, inspired, touched and loved by their rightful men.
Ms Niresh Naidoo, a dietician from KZN Department of Health, had her fair share on “Nutrition” too. She emphasized on the importance of eating healthy food and touched on types of food and drinks that one would consider to minimise, such as red meat, alcohol, fruit juice and caffeine intake. Niresh encouraged men to increase water consumption and control what they eat.
Mr Bonginkosi Zondi, the Director from KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture gave important tips on farming and agriculture. He emphasized the importance of cultivating the culture of producing our own food.
In conclusion, Rev Ntshangase gave an inspiring speech and revealed that his experience in life shaped him to be the person he is today. The reaction from men attending the event was overwhelming as they joyfully interacted with all the speakers on issues related to the day’s gathering. Speakers commended the organisers of the event – the Change Management Directorate for organising such worthwhile session. It is crucial to celebrate and appreciate men for the good contributions they make to the society. The session was concluded on a high note as all attendees were treated to a braai held at the Alexandra Park facility, closest to Head Office.
