By Tholakele Makena

Khanyisile Sigasa carries herself with a quiet confidence; steady, composed, and thoughtful. Beneath her calm exterior, however, is a story defined by resilience, conviction, and a commitment to social justice.

 

Now 32 years old, Sigasa is a registry clerk at the Department of Social Development, working on the Child Protection Register. Her work, though behind the scenes, contributes directly to the safety and well-being of children across South Africa.

 

Reflecting on her nearly decade of dedicated public service, she explains: “I began my career at the Gauteng Department of Economic Development and, in 2022, I transferred to the Department of Social Development because I wanted to be part of something that aligned more directly with my values.”

 

Those values rooted in compassion, inclusion, and service have been shaped by both her professional experiences and personal journey.

 

Sigasa lives with albinism, and while this has presented challenges, it has also made her an even more empathetic and determined individual.

 

“Living with albinism has taught me a lot,” she says. “It’s made me deeply aware of the importance of inclusion and equality. I try to live in a way that promotes those principles every day.”

 

Sigasa’s motivation to work in the public sector began early in life. “From a young age, I felt drawn to work that uplifts and protects the most vulnerable in society as I also considered myself a part of them,” she says.

 

Her role at the department is both administrative and protective in nature

 

 As a registry clerk within the Child Protection Register unit, Sigasa helps ensure that only individuals who are trustworthy and without histories of abuse are allowed to work with children. It is a role of enormous responsibility, though it rarely gets attention.

 

“The register plays a critical role in safeguarding children. I make sure that our documentation and processes are accurate and efficient so that no child is left vulnerable,” she explains.

 

“I take pride in knowing that my work, while not always visible, contributes to creating safer environments for children.”

 

Contemplating the most fulfilling part of her work, Sigasa says: “It’s the peace that comes from knowing I’ve played a part in keeping a child safe. Even though they’ll never know my name, that contribution means everything to me.”

 

This quiet sense of reward reflects the essence of many public servants those who do the work not for recognition, but for impact.

 

Her story is also a reminder of how meaningful work can exist in all corners of public service, even where it may not be seen.

 

Sigasa’s career has not been without its challenges. She has encountered exclusion and discrimination, especially related to her albinism.

 

Added to that, she also faced unexpected health issues after a decade of work, which forced her to re-evaluate her path and her resilience.

 

“These moments tested me,” she says. “But I refused to let them define me. I held onto self-belief and reminded myself that strength doesn’t always roar, sometimes it’s quiet and persistent.”

 

Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance. Through each challenge, she has continued to rise, emerging stronger, more empathetic, and more determined than before.

 

For Sigasa, Women’s Month is a deeply meaningful time.

 

“It’s a celebration of resilience and grace. It reminds us of the progress women have made and the strength we carry every single day, not just in grand gestures, but in how we live, raise families, lead teams, and support each other.”

 

When asked about the women who inspire her, she smiles before offering a strikingly honest answer. “I inspire myself,” she says. “I’ve faced challenges that no one else could fight for me. And I’ve overcome them. That journey, my journey, is my greatest motivation.”

 

To young women looking to make a difference in their communities, Sigasa offers advice born from experience: “Believe in yourself. Care for yourself. You are your first community. Nurture your mind, your body, your spirit, and only then can you effectively care for others.”

 

Sigasa’s future is guided by a sense of purpose and personal growth. While continuing her work at the Department of Social Development, she also plans to make greater use of her legal qualification by specialising in children’s rights.

 

“I want to use my legal knowledge to advocate more directly for children, especially those who don’t have a voice,” she says.

 

“Combining my administrative experience with legal expertise will allow me to have a deeper impact.”

 

Sigasa is not just an employee in the department; she is a reminder of what the public service stands for: quiet integrity, resilience, and a commitment to the common good.