‘We no longer teach for now but for a better tomorrow.’

This idea of making a difference in the lives of children through education for a better future has always been the inspiration that drives Bafana Mabena, the newly appointed Curro Krugersdorp High School principal.

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The 34-year-old has been in teaching for the past 16 years and has served in various management positions at four different schools.

Mabena said the opportunity to make a difference in children’s lives and inspire them to know that they can achieve anything in life through dedication is what motivates him to go to school and teach each day.

I believe in teaching for life and not only for information, as life lessons taught through the eyes of a teacher are seeds that become a tree that will feed the nation one day. When I teach, I always link it to physical examples in this life we are in. Everyone has gold hidden; it’s our job as teachers to cultivate it.”

Besides coming through the ranks as educator Mabena is also an inspirational athlete having run seven Comrades and boasting three silver medals.

“I believe in making a difference through mentorship programmes that empower young men to make better choices in life as part of my contribution to a better society – making life decisions with eternity in mind.”

When at home, Mabena enjoys quality time with his family, especially his nine-year-old and nine-month-old girls, and he believes that legacy is time invested in people and not things.

Mabena grew up in a small town called Breyten in Mpumalanga where he spent his primary school years.

“When I think about school in our days, I am amazed to even think that we had chalk boards, and how technology has changed the face of education. From barefoot sports days to boots, books and pens to tablets and interactive whiteboards. From outcome-based education to creative thinkers.

I believe that this is a God-directed appointment to fulfil a greater purpose than the one of my own. I’m just grateful for the opportunity to contribute to making a difference through education.”