When opportunity knocked, he answered with purpose. Enos Motaka Malatji, a final-year Diagnostic Radiography student in the School of Medicine at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been appointed to the National Council of the Society of Radiographers of South Africa (SORSA) as a National Student Representative. He is the first SMU student to join the organisation — and now among the youngest voices contributing to its national agenda.
His appointment marks more than a personal milestone. It signals a meaningful step forward in strengthening student representation within one of South Africa’s most influential professional radiography bodies. “I am grateful for the opportunity,” Malatji said. “Serving SORSA began with curiosity, driven by my passion for student wellness. I never pursued a title — I pursued impact.”
That impact gained national momentum in late 2025 when he was invited to Cape Town to present on student participation at a National Council meeting — a defining moment in his advocacy journey. “That was when I understood the seriousness of this journey,” he reflected. “Standing before national leadership and representing students, I realised this responsibility is bigger than me.”
He credits SORSA Gauteng Representative and SMU Radiography lecturer Khomotso Motiang for encouraging him to accept the invitation. “Her support strengthened my advocacy. Sometimes leadership begins when someone sees potential in you before you see it yourself.”
Now, as National Student Representative, Malatji carries a clear mandate: to direct national student affairs within SORSA and ensure that student radiographers are heard where key decisions are made.
His responsibilities include representing student radiographers nationally; serving as the formal student voice at the National Council; contributing to policy discussions on education, clinical training and professional standards; promoting student participation in congresses, symposia and CPD initiatives; communicating Council decisions to students; strengthening student membership; establishing active student chapters across training institutions; and upholding professional and ethical standards.
“There is still significant work ahead to build a strong foundation,” he said. “But through collaboration with students across universities, Provincial Representatives and the National Council, I am confident that we can shape a stronger future together.”
SORSA, a voluntary non-profit association, represents radiographers across Diagnostic, Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy and Ultrasound disciplines. Recognised nationally and affiliated with the International Society of Radiographers and Radiological Technologists, the Society advances professional standards, publishes The South African Radiographer, and provides continuing professional development opportunities.
For students, membership offers tangible benefits, including discounted access to national congresses and CPD events, Continuing Education Units through Directed Reading Programmes, eligibility for education awards, opportunities for conference funding support and complimentary registration to selected symposia.
However, Malatji believes the true value extends beyond these benefits. “To every radiography student who feels unheard: this platform belongs to you,” he said. “Your experiences in clinical training, your academic challenges and your professional aspirations deserve representation at the highest level.”
He speaks not as a student seeking recognition, but as an advocate committed to service. “Student advocacy is not optional,” he concluded. “If we want a stronger profession tomorrow, we must build it deliberately today.”
With his appointment, the message is clear: the next generation of radiographers is not waiting for a seat at the table — they are stepping forward to lead.
By Tumelo Moila
