At Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), academic brilliance is lovingly intertwined with the spirit of Ubuntu, a testament to the institution’s enduring values of respect and community. Among the many souls who embody this ethos stands Radipoponono Tladi – affectionately known as the “Honourable One” – whose quiet humility, boundless kindness, and steadfast dedication have left an indelible mark on the SMU family.
Born in Lady Selbourne, now Suiderberg, Tladi’s early life was steeped in nature’s gentle embrace. Later, in Ga-Rankuwa, he discovered the profound joy of gardening, a passion that transformed necessity into a lifelong devotion. “I grew up where farming and gardening were part of daily life,” he reminisces, his voice soft with nostalgia, “and that love has only grown deeper with time.”
Now a cherished member of SMU’s gardening personnel, Tladi does far more than tend to green spaces. He cultivates hope, offers sage advice, and extends heartfelt greetings that have become a source of comfort for both students and staff. “I wanted to work somewhere that allowed me to blend my love for nature with a sense of community,” he reflects, and SMU has indeed become the perfect haven for his nurturing spirit.
For many, Tladi is not merely a caretaker – he is a father figure, a confidant, and a gentle reminder that care and compassion can flourish in even the smallest of gestures. SMU alumna and Clinical Psychologist Mosima Letsoalo sums it up beautifully: “The Honourable One is a beacon of compassion and humility, uplifting spirits even on the darkest days. With his contagious smile and grace, he radiates gratitude in all he does. A man of such calibre truly deserves his flowers while he is still alive.”
Every corner of the university’s gardens tells a story carefully crafted by Tladi’s tender hand. He believes that each plant holds a purpose, just as every individual does. From lavender for relaxation and sunflowers for joy to aloe vera for healing, every choice is deliberate – a living metaphor for resilience and hope. His favourite, the ancient cycad, stands as a testament to survival and timeless beauty, inspiring all who pause to admire its enduring strength.
Despite facing challenges such as unpredictable weather, plant diseases, and the constraints of limited resources, Tladi’s resolve never wavers. “Challenges push us to be creative,” he muses, recalling how he has often turned to recycled materials to keep his beloved gardens thriving. His vision extends beyond mere maintenance – he dreams of creating a serene green sanctuary, a peaceful retreat where students can find solace, recharge, and draw inspiration from the natural world.
In a world often defined by haste and hardship, Radipoponono Tladi reminds us that true greatness lies not in accolades but in the quiet, consistent acts of care that uplift others. His gentle words and kind presence have nurtured both the gardens and the hearts of those who walk among them, embodying the very essence of SMU’s commitment to excellence and community.
At SMU, where academic excellence meets the beauty of compassion, the “Honourable One” stands as a living testament to the power of kindness. His story, woven through the fabric of the university, continues to inspire and comfort, proving that even the simplest acts of care can blossom into a legacy of hope and love.
By Tumelo Moila
