Mana a mutukana a si vhumatshelo hawe (the cracks on the heels of a boy are not his future). This is the personal slogan of Thinandavha Edward Munwana (40), which has kept him going ever since he was a small boy.

Despite growing up in harsh and indigent conditions, Munwana persevered without compromise and he is going up the career ladder without compromise, while his critics continue to eat humble pie.

The hardworking Munwana of Makhado proved that everything is possible after he relinquished his position of assistant superintendent in the traffic section of the Thulamela Municipality. This is after his employers recently rewarded his hard work and sacrifices by appointing him as chief traffic officer.

Munwana says success does not come overnight but the most important thing is to work hard. "Even the Bible says those who do not work must not eat. I make sure that I do my work with distinction, because my obligation is to render efficient services to immediate community members. Clients are the most important people and I make sure that they are satisfied by the services that I render to them. If you want to be successful, you must treat everyone equally, with respect and dignity."

It has been a long and winding road for the hardworking Munwana to be where he is today. He started working as a traffic officer in Randburg in 1983. He left Randburg in 1997 after he was promoted to senior traffic officer. He then worked as senior traffic officer in Louis Trichardt in the same year for short time before he was appointed traffic officer by the then Greater Thohoyandou TLC in the same year, where he worked for two years. In 1999, he was appointed assistant superintendent by the Thulamela Municipality, a position he held for eight years before he was appointed in his present position.

Apart from his practical experience, Munwana holds countless traffic diplomas, a B Admin and an honours degree in labour law. He is presently studying for a master’s degree in traffic management with Tswane University.

Munwana thanked the Thulamela Municipality for recognising his hard work. "I am very thankful to my employer for displaying trust in me. This means that my responsibilities will be more and I must always work to build the good image of the institution. I would also like to thank anyone who contributed to my being where I am today, including co-workers, friends and family members."