Mr. Sipho Mkwanazi is undaunted about managing two positions at the Lekwa Municipality.
The spokesman of the municipality has been appointed as manager in the executive mayor’s office.
“I am happy where I am,” he said.
Mr Mkwanazi’s career began as a clerk with the Msimang Centre after matriculating at Jandrell Secondary School.
He was appointed as clerical assistant in the finance department of the municipality afterwards.
Extensive knowledge as regional shop steward of the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) prepared him in dealing with the media.
“I found it interesting and challenging.”
According to him there is no better school than being in a union, where a committed person is needed, who wants to learn.
He liaised with seven different municipalities and was the communications officer for SAMWU as well.
The new position requires someone who has tolerance for every kind of person, regardless of race, gender, age or background.
Mr Mkwanazi said the new job needs someone who can work under pressure, and furthermore understands the community and treat them with respect and dignity.
He wanted to become an investigative detective, fuelled by television programmes, when he was at school and then contemplated the teaching profession.
“It is not an easy road to travel to where I am.”
He obtained a certificate in Financial Management at the University of the Witwatersrand in his road up the ladder.
As to the question about working under a woman, Mr Mkwanazi said it is no different from working under a man.
He has two sons, Samukelo and Vuyo, one daughter Thobeka, and another daughter, Simone, from his marriage to Belinda.
“If you work hard without thinking about rewards, you will be rewarded when you least expect it.”
