VIDEO: Energetic Mooirivier traffic patroller wins hearts
During the early morning and afternoon school rush, Manuel Lebiletso, can be seen directing traffic and ensuring safety of learners with a big smile and energetic dance moves that brighten everyone's day.
One man has made it his duty to ensure the safety of pedestrians at the Laerskool Mooirivier zebra crossing on Thabo Mbeki Avenue. With a big smile on his face, energetic movements and a dance or two, Manuel Lebiletso (36) has captured the attention and respect of parents, learners and the general public who use this busy route.
Manuel is on duty during the busy early-morning and mid-afternoon rush at the signal crossing, when hundreds of learners use the crossing to go to and from school. You can see the passion in his work on his face as he wipes the sweat from his brow before taking a breather.
See the video of Manuel in action here:
“You have to be fit to do this job. It is up and down and a lot of energy is used to ensure everyone’s safety. Coffee in the morning really helps to boost my energy,” he says with a smile.
Before he can answer another question, he is back on his post, stopping oncoming cars and greeting pedestrians with a cheerful “Hallo ntate, daarsy!” Some of the learners are also greeted with a high five to start their day. Motorists also honk their horns in appreciation of his efforts.
Manuel has been working at Mooirivier Beskerming as a security officer for nearly five years. He patrols Thabo Mbeki Street and has a passion for his job.
“In the beginning I was unfit and could not ride my bike very well. But I persevered, and the company believed in me. I worked really hard,” he added.
It was challenging at first for Manuel to get safety at the crossing up to standard, as vehicles routinely skipped the traffic lights.
“It was really dangerous at one point. I really had to convince the parents and win them over so that they could trust me with their kids at the crossing. I just did my job to the best of my ability,” states Manuel, who starts his morning shift at 06:45-07:30 and comes back for the midday rush at 12:45-13:45.
Manuel is a living example of how going the extra mile and doing your job wholeheartedly can make a big difference in a community.
“There is a lot of pressure for me to support my family, and I know I have a responsibility to them, just as I have a responsibility for the community’s safety. Their support fuels me daily.”
