Johannes Sibusiso Mbokane, a number one machine minder, is one of the employees who has helped shape Lowveld Media’s story in Mbombela.

He joined the company in 1998 as a street seller. Since then, he has built a career filled with memorable moments and opportunities for growth.

Originally from Pienaar, Mbokane said he never imagined, when he moved on from street selling, that he would one day look back on such a journey with a company that believes in investing in its employees.

In 2003, he was registered as a collector and general worker, and through the guidance of management, he enrolled for a course in rotary offset machine training. After completing the course, he did a trade test in 2008 and is now a qualified machine minder.

According to him, he enjoys his job because every printing project teaches him something new.

“Our work requires us to be careful and focused to ensure we deliver good service. I see challenges and difficulties as learning opportunities. Even when our machines break down, fixing them helps me develop new skills and gain experience,” he said.

Rising through the ranks

Mbokane holds a certificate in first aid from the South African Red Cross Society. Mbokane was awarded the most diligent press operator of the year during the Lowveld Media 2009 staff awards. In 2015, he earned this title once again.

He describes his job and role as an opportunity that exposed him to print media and has helped him grow.

“My dream is to see Lowveld Media continue to grow and bringing opportunities to others. When I started working here, I never thought I would be able to reach the level of machine minder number one,” said Mbokane.

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