“I learned new skills so that I could carry on with my responsibilities," says UP security officer Aubrey Makhubela, who tells Tukkievaria what it’s like to live and work with a disability.

Security officer Aubrey Makhubela chats to Tukkievaria about his role on Onderstepoort campus and how he fulfils his responsibilities despite living with a disability.

Tell us about your background.

I was born in Hammanskraal at a place called Ratjepane. I lived with my parents until the age of two, but my mother sent me to my grandmother so that she could continue with her domestic work. I completed my Grade 12 in 2007.  

I started my first job at a chicken farm in 2009.  I couldn't further my studies because of my financial challenges. I started my security career in 2010 and joined UP in 2012 under Fidelity Security Company.  

What are the challenges you experience when executing your job?

In 2016, I was involved in a car accident on my way home from work. I was severely impacted because I was a left-handed person who had to adapt to using my right hand. There are challenges like poor focus, impaired memory, reading difficulty, spelling problems and a neurotic disposition. However, spiritually, I believe that the "right hand" is a position of honour, thus I've accepted such an unnatural transformation. Furthermore, because my hand is not physically controllable, I place it in my trouser pocket when registering vehicles at the main entrance, which some clients feel is unprofessional. I learned new skills so that I could carry on with my responsibilities.

How does UP support you under these conditions?

I've received immense support from all levels of the University, including, among others, engaging in positive conversations, medical support and adjusting my posture to be at eye level. My colleagues are conscious of avoiding offensive terms while conversing, and they don't assume that I view my disability as a tragedy. I learned a lot from my line managers and colleagues, and I hope to advance my career to the level of control room operator or higher. Mr Ronnie Ramoroka, the Head of Department; Mr Philip Mmushi; and the rest of UP Security Management Services are always teaching me the ropes.

What tips would you like to share with colleagues who are living with disabilities?

• Make changes where necessary
• Recognise and accept your disability
• Find strategies to reduce the impact of your disability on your life
• Request (and accept) assistance and support
• Find activities that give you meaning and purpose
• Make your health your number one priority

I would like to borrow a phrase from Stephen Hawking: “Pay attention to the abilities that your disability does not impair, rather than the ones that it does. Be physically disabled, not spiritually.”