“My physical challenges do not affect my abilities,” says Poulos Mageza, an access controller on Onderstepoort campus, who chats about his responsibilities and how best to interact with physically challenged individuals.

Poulos Mageza, who hails from Mabopane, north of Pretoria in the Klipgat gaTsebe section, joined the University of Pretoria (UP) in 2016. As an access controller in the Department of Security Services on Onderstepoort campus, he is responsible for verifying visitor identities, inspecting vehicles, granting or denying access, and ensuring the security of the premises. His role also involves monitoring entry and exit points, reporting suspicious activities, and maintaining visitor records.

While Mageza’s physical condition poses some challenges, he remains committed to performing his duties effectively. “I have a dislocated right foot because of polio, which I contracted when I was four years old,” he explains. Despite this, he says his physical disability does not impede his ability to carry out his responsibilities. Mageza is the first point of contact for anyone entering the campus. He embraces this responsibility with pride, knowing that his professionalism and friendliness set the tone for visitors' experiences.

"I enjoy interacting with people," he says. “The way we greet and engage with visitors influences their perception of the campus, and I’m proud to be a part of that." However, Mageza acknowledges that the job comes with its frustrations, particularly when people undermine security protocols. “It’s frustrating when people expect us to break the rules or follow their instructions instead of the set security procedures,” he says.

Mageza offers valuable insight on interacting with people with physical disabilities in the workplace, stressing the importance of respect and consideration:

1. Seek permission before offering assistance: Always ask if someone needs help before acting. Helping without consent can undermine their autonomy. Respect their response, even if they decline.
2. Offer specific help, but wait for confirmation: Suggest what you believe might be needed, but let the individual confirm if your help is welcome. What seems helpful to you may not be what they require.
3. Recognise individuality: Don’t assume that someone with a physical disability needs help. Many individuals are fully capable of managing their tasks independently.
4. Be patient and follow their lead: If help is accepted, be patient and let the person guide you on how best to assist them. They know their needs better than anyone.
5. Avoid patronising behaviour: Treat everyone with dignity and respect. Don’t talk down to someone or make assumptions about their abilities based on their disability.
6. Respect personal space and mobility aids: A person’s wheelchair or crutches are part of their personal space. Never touch or move these without permission, as it can be invasive and disrespectful.

By following these principles, Mageza believes that we can ensure our interactions with physically challenged individuals are both respectful and considerate, fostering a more inclusive and understanding workplace environment.