As mourners gathered in Mpumalanga for the funeral of former Deputy President David Mabuza, a touching and lesser-known chapter of his life came to light during the reading of his obituary — his beginnings as a mathematics teacher.
Before ascending to national prominence, Mabuza spent his early professional years in the classroom, where he not only taught equations but also shaped young minds. Though always politically engaged, even during his teaching days, it was the structure, patience, and discipline of the classroom that helped define his leadership style in later years.
This revelation struck a chord with many in attendance, offering a more intimate glimpse into the man behind the political title — someone who believed in the power of education and the potential of youth. It also underscored his long-standing commitment to youth development, a theme that followed him throughout his political career.
As the nation bids farewell, this part of Mabuza’s story serves as a reminder that leadership often begins far from the spotlight — in schools, in communities, and in everyday acts of guidance and service.
