We learn more about TuksSports High School security officer Albert Sikhwetha.

TuksSports High School security officer Albert Sikhwetha is a highly valued member of the team. He told us more about his position and what motivates and inspires him.

Please give us a short description of your position.

I am a security officer and work within the Department of Security Services. I deal mainly with access control and patrolling. I also guard entry points, verify visitors and conduct premises inspections.

How did you find yourself working for UP?

I wanted to be a chef, but life does not always offer us what we want. In pursuit of a better life, I started working at a store and was promoted to store manager in 2006. Unfortunately, in 2009, I lost my job and had to look for another job. I decided to enrol for security training and landed this job in 2016. I believe this job was the perfect redirection for my life. I have an N3 Mechanical Engineering certificate from Tshwane Southern College.

Which UP pillar do you identify with and why?

Innovate – when I started working at UP, there used to be a breach of communication among house parents, security guards and parents. So I suggested we open a WhatsApp group chat so all parties could communicate to ensure the safety of learners. I am always looking for ways to better my services and improve where I can.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The everyday interactions I have with people. Seeing the learners and them asking me questions gives my job so much meaning. 

What do you enjoy least about your job?

There is nothing I do not enjoy about my job. People are dynamic and challenging by nature; I always approach it from that angle. I love my job and I love working with people, so there is nothing I would change. It is just the attitude people sometimes have towards my job; unfortunately, I have no control over that. I can only improve and excel as much as I can.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

My pastor inspires me so much. I always get words of wisdom from him. He always encourages me to go back to school.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

I would like to see myself in a managerial position in the security field. I have discovered so much about it and would like to climb the ladder.

Which quote do you live by?

“Be yourself; try not to settle into another person’s version of you.”

A message from TuksSports High School:

“Mr Albert was on duty at TuksSports High School when a parent of an international learner came to watch his son’s soccer match and requested to take his son with him after the game. Mr Albert noted that the name of the son was not on the list of the learners who had permission to leave and kindly withheld the son from leaving. The parent had to get the mentor at the school to sign out the son, and instead of the parent lashing out at Mr Albert for withholding his son from leaving, he was very pleased and was assured that his son’s safety was of paramount importance at UP. We salute Mr Albert for a job well done!”