At just 24 years old, Ntshadi Masingita Rose Keorapetse Bokaba exemplifies the exceptional calibre of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) students. Hailing from the village of Mamaku, on the border of the North West Province and Ga-Rankuwa Township, Bokaba’s journey from modest beginnings to her current role as Deputy President of the SMU Student Representative Council (SRC) highlights the university’s commitment to nurturing resilient and ambitious leaders.
Ntshadi Masingita Rose Keorapetse Bokaba
Bokaba’s leadership philosophy, rooted in her unwavering faith and values of humility, integrity, and discipline, reflects SMU’s transformative impact on its students. Guided by the principle in Mark 10:45 – “Even the Son of man did not come to be served but to serve”—she embodies servant leadership, fostering collaboration and championing meaningful change within the university community.
Her role as Deputy President includes enhancing academic support systems, advocating for mental health awareness, and representing student interests in the university council. “Leadership is not about the title but the responsibility to uplift and transform,” Bokaba emphasises. She approaches her work with a transformative vision, blending innovative ideas with sustainable systems to enrich student life and academic success.
Ntshadi’s top priorities underscore her commitment to the overall well-being of SMU students. First, she highlights Enhanced Academic Support, advocating for an increase in tutors and mentors and ensuring they receive fair compensation for their valuable contributions. Second, her focus on mental health advocacy calls for expanded access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, to address the rising challenges of student mental health crises. Lastly, she champions collaborative systems, promoting seamless coordination across university departments to provide holistic support that combines academic and personal development. “Students who dedicate their time to mentoring others deserve fair recognition. We must protect and support our students at every level,” she declares.
Personalised academic support systems are at the heart of her strategy. She believes every student’s needs are unique and deserve tailored solutions. “Every student is an individual, and our approach must respect their circumstances and aspirations,” she says.
In her capacity as head of the SRC’s disciplinary committee, Bokaba underscores the importance of open communication, accountability, and inclusivity. “Leadership is about creating a space where everyone feels heard, seen, and valued,” she asserts.
She is a staunch advocate for marginalised and underserved communities, ensuring their concerns are prioritised and addressed. Her focus on transparency ensures that all SRC members work collaboratively and ethically to represent the student body’s interests.
Her leadership extends beyond advocacy into actionable collaboration with academic committees, lecturers, and student support services. “Lecturers are often the first point of learning for students; working closely with them is essential,” she shares.
Her strategies include mentorship programs, academic workshops, personalised interventions for struggling students, and fostering collaborative platforms for engagement between students and departments. She also views technology as a key enabler. “Integrating technology into mentorship programs and study workshops will make academic resources more accessible and impactful,” she notes.
Bokaba’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and faith. From navigating setbacks in her dream to study medicine to rising as a leader, her story inspires students to persevere. “My story is one of an underdog who remained steadfast and eventually came out on top,” she reflects with pride.
As a leader, her boldness, strategic thinking, and unwavering dedication to empowering women in leadership are evident. She is working to reintroduce initiatives like the Golden Key, a programme that recognises and rewards academic excellence. “True leadership is about mobilising others to continue the vision long after you have moved on,” she explains.
Her leadership experience includes serving as the Chairperson of the 5B Residence’s House Committee for 2021/2022 and acting as a Class Representative. She has also worked as a mentor and tutor.
She offers timeless advice to future SRC Deputy Presidents: “Never lose sight of your vision and the impact you wish to create. Foster strong relationships with your peers; no leader achieves greatness alone. You are an integral part of the SRC executive. Lead with confidence and integrity.”
Bokaba’s faith, family, and community grounding shapes her leadership style and resilience. Raised in a close-knit Catholic household, her belief in the Holy Trinity forms the cornerstone of her character. From excelling in high school academics and sports to serving as a youth leader in her church, she exemplifies discipline and determination.
Currently a fourth-year medical student, she balances her academic and leadership responsibilities with grace. Reflecting on her journey, she says: “Even when we lose, we come back better. No challenge defines us; it only sharpens us.” Before pursuing medicine, she earned a BSc in Life Sciences, majoring in Biochemistry and Pathophysiology, graduating with cum laude honours.
Bokaba is more than a leader; she is a force for positive change at SMU. Her vision, resilience, and commitment to student welfare leave an indelible mark on the university, paving the way for future leaders to follow.
“I am here not just to lead but to transform, empower, and ensure that every student feels supported and valued. My goal is to challenge the status quo and claim space as a proud female leader,” she concludes.
*By Tumelo Moila
