Learners listen to inspirational messages about choosing a career path at the Silverlea Primary School Career Expo in Silvertown, Athlone
In August 2026, I had the privilege of participating in a Career Expo hosted by Bridgetown Library at Silverlea Primary School in Athlone, which also happened to be my alma mater. Walking back through those familiar gates was both nostalgic and deeply meaningful, as I had the opportunity to share my professional journey with the next generation of learners.
Leading the day were Librarians Micaela Victor and Robin Nicole Smith, who brought both passion and professionalism to the expo. With energy and warmth, they brilliantly showcased librarianship as a dynamic and rewarding career. Learners arrived armed with thoughtful career questionnaires and Micaela and Robin turned those questions into lively, engaging conversations. By sharing stories of their own career journeys, they not only answered curiosities but also sparked genuine excitement, successfully positioning librarianship as a profession full of purpose, impact and opportunity.
Librarians Micaela Victor and Robin Nicole Smith engaging with learners at Silverlea Primary School
My role was to highlight marketing and communications as a career choice, and more specifically, its role within Library & Information Services. For many learners, this was a new perspective and a career path they may not have considered previously. I spoke about how marketing and communications can be a natural fit for those passionate about English, writing and public speaking and how these skills can be harnessed to amplify the work libraries do in their communities.
Silverlea Primary and Blossom Street Primary learners eagerly jot down responses to their questionnaires while engaging with Bridgetown Librarians and PO: Tarcia Eiman (behind the lens)
What made the day especially memorable was reconnecting with some of the educators who once taught me and now seeing them guide a new generation of learners. To stand in front of those classrooms again, not as a student but as someone imparting knowledge and experience, was a full-circle moment I will always treasure.
The Career Expo reminded me of the power of education and mentorship and how vital it is to show young people the wide range of career paths open to them. For me, it was a chance to give back to the school that laid the foundation for my journey and to encourage learners to dream boldly, to explore possibilities and to believe in the futures they can create for themselves.
MAYCO for Community Services & Health Councillor Francine Higham joins the 2026 SILL graduating cohort to celebrate a new chapter of library leadership
On 10 July 2026, the Edgemead Hall was filled with pride, joy and celebration as 23 librarians graduated from the Strengthening Innovative Library Leaders (SILL) Academy. The occasion was made even more meaningful as it coincided with Librarians Day, providing the perfect opportunity to celebrate both our profession and the remarkable future leaders who are helping to shape it.
The SILL Academy has become an important part of the Library and Information Services leadership development journey. Over five weeks, participants challenged themselves to grow as leaders, innovators and advocates for their communities. What began as a group of individuals from different libraries and backgrounds soon became a supportive cohort united by a shared passion for libraries and the people they serve.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the programme is witnessing the transformation that takes place along the way. Many participants arrived on the first day feeling nervous and uncertain, but week by week they found their voices, built meaningful connections and developed greater confidence in their own leadership abilities. The networking opportunities, collaborative learning experiences and conversations with their independent observers challenged them to think differently and gain valuable insights into themselves and their roles as librarians.
A highlight of the graduation ceremony was hearing four members of the cohort bravely share their SILL journeys. Elmarie Waltman, Thandiwe Kekela, Maymoona Roomaney and Sipho Fako stood proudly before their peers and reflected on their personal growth throughout the programme. Despite their nerves, each speaker spoke with honesty and passion about how SILL had strengthened their confidence, broadened their perspectives and helped them appreciate the value of learning from colleagues across the library service.
Sipho Fako’s presentation was particularly moving. He shared a personal story and spoke about the importance of creating inclusive library spaces for neurodivergent children. His message was a powerful reminder that libraries should be places where every child feels welcomed, understood and supported. His courage and authenticity resonated deeply with everyone in attendance.
SILL 2026 graduate and speaker Sipho Fako, Librarian at Wynberg Library
Another special moment of the day was the recognition of Randal Rousseau of Valhalla Park Library, who was voted by his peers as the Personality of Cohort 5. Randall, who proudly describes himself as the “Maker Librarian,” has become known for his enthusiasm, creativity and passion for helping young people explore robotics and coding. He is deeply committed to the Valhalla Park community and is determined to ensure that children and families have opportunities to participate in the technological age. His infectious energy and innovative spirit made him a worthy recipient of this peer selected honour.
Randal Rousseau was awarded the Personality of Cohort 5 posing alongside Councillor Francine Higham and Assistant Director: Provincial Library Services Metropole, Angela Bromkamp
The theme of this year’s graduation, “Future-Fit Librarians,” perfectly captured the spirit of the cohort. These graduates have demonstrated their commitment to lifelong learning, innovation and leadership. They represent a new generation of librarians who understand that libraries are not only repositories of knowledge, but also catalysts for opportunity, inclusion and community development.
SILL 2026 graduate and speaker Maymoona Roomaney, Librarian at Retreat Library
As the assistant programme coordinator, I could not be prouder of this cohort. It has been a privilege to watch them grow, support one another and step outside of their comfort zones. Their willingness to learn, reflect and lead gives me great confidence in the future of Library and Information Services.
We salute Christelle Lubbe, whose vision and leadership led to the establishment of the SILL Academy. By recognising the need to develop and empower future leaders, she created an invaluable platform for growth, learning, and leadership development. Her commitment to investing in people is helping to shape the next generation of leaders and strengthen our organization for the future.
As I looked around the room on graduation day, I did not just see 23 graduates. I saw 23 future leaders, innovators and champions for their communities. I am incredibly proud of each one of them and look forward to seeing them fly the LIS flag high wherever their journeys may take them.
As part of their ongoing community outreach initiatives, Simon’s Town Library partnered with Fish Hoek High School to host a successful Career Expo aimed at supporting learners with post-school planning. The expo featured over 12 different institutions, offering learners a wide range of study and career opportunities. The library partnered with Absa Bank, providing learners with valuable information and tips on financial planning and funding options for furthering their studies.
Grade 9-12 learners were invited to attend and the engagement levels were encouraging. Notably, there was significant interest in libraries as a career path, with many learners enquiring about qualifications, study routes and opportunities available within the library and information services sector. The event strengthened partnerships between the library and local schools while successfully positioning the library as both an information hub and a gateway to future career possibilities.
Balancing a full-time career with high-level research is no small feat, but Lonwabo Mabele, Librarian at Brackenfell Library, has officially crossed the finish line successfully completing his master’s degree at the University of Cape Town. Beyond the extra letters behind his name, his journey is a testament to the passion and dedication that drive our department forward. I sat down with him to chat about the highs, hurdles and fresh insights he’s bringing back to the stacks.
T: Completing a Master’s at UCT is a massive milestone. Looking back on the long nights and intensive research, what was the most rewarding part of this academic journey for you personally?
L: The most rewarding part of this journey was seeing how my research connected directly to the real work we do in libraries every day. There were many late nights, moments of doubt, and long stretches of reading and writing, but what made it meaningful was knowing that the work was not just academic. It was about representation, access, and ensuring that libraries remain safe and inclusive spaces for everyone. Personally, completing this Master’s also affirmed my resilience. Balancing full time work, community initiatives, and research pushed me in ways I had never experienced before. Walking away from UCT knowing that I contributed to a meaningful conversation within librarianship was incredibly fulfilling.
T: As a Librarian who is constantly pushing boundaries within our department, how has your time at UCT influenced the way you view the future of Library & Information Services?
L: My time at UCT completely transformed how I view the future of Library and Information Services. I now see libraries as active socio-political spaces that shape knowledge, identity and belonging. This experience strengthened my belief that libraries must move beyond traditional roles and embrace digital curation, inclusive collections and community driven programming. It also reinforced the importance of innovation, collaboration and continuous learning. The future of libraries in Cape Town lies in being responsive, inclusive, and proactive, and my studies have given me both the confidence and the tools to help shape that future.
T: Your thesis titled: “Socio-political examination of the curation and dissemination of LGBTIA+ multimedia: A case of the University of Cape Town,” addresses such a nuanced and vital area of librarianship. What was the ‘spark’ or the specific observation in your professional or personal experiences that inspired you to dive so deeply into this particular topic?
L: The spark came from noticing gaps in representation within collections and programming. In my professional experience, I observed that while libraries aim to serve diverse communities, certain voices and stories were still underrepresented, particularly LGBTIA plus multimedia resources. This raised important questions for me about who decides what gets curated, how materials are shared, and what socio-political factors influence those decisions. I wanted to explore how institutions like libraries could become more intentional in ensuring that all communities see themselves reflected in the knowledge we preserve and disseminate. That curiosity quickly grew into a deep commitment to explore this topic further.
T: You’ve been recognised as quite the trailblazer for innovation within our department. How do you plan to take the insights from your research and apply them to the way we serve our diverse communities in Cape Town?
L: I plan to apply my research by strengthening inclusive curation practices, developing community informed collections, and creating programming that reflects the diversity of Cape Town. This includes leveraging digital platforms, collaborating with community organisations, and encouraging staff to think critically about representation in our spaces. My goal is to ensure that our libraries continue to evolve as welcoming environments where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. Innovation for me is not only about technology but also about reimagining how we connect people to knowledge and to one another.
T: Every researcher faces moments where the path forward seems unclear. What would you say was the biggest challenge you encountered while examining the socio-political aspects of curation?
L: The biggest challenge was navigating the sensitive and complex socio-political nature of the topic. It required careful consideration, ethical awareness, and thoughtful engagement with diverse perspectives. At times, finding relevant literature and balancing academic rigor with real world experiences was challenging. I navigated this by staying grounded in my purpose, seeking guidance from my supervisor, and continuously reflecting on how my research could contribute positively to the field. Patience, persistence and passion carried me through the most difficult moments.
T: For your colleagues within the department who might be considering furthering their studies or looking for ways to bring more innovation into their libraries, what is one piece of advice you’d share with them?
L: My advice would be to remain curious and never underestimate the value of your ideas. Innovation often starts with observing challenges in your daily work and asking how things can be done differently. Further studies are not only about qualifications but about growth, confidence, and expanding your impact. Start small, stay consistent, and surround yourself with supportive colleagues who encourage your journey. Every step you take toward learning ultimately benefits the communities we serve.
T: They say trailblazers never stay in one place for too long! Now that the Master’s cap and gown are tucked away, what comes next for Lonwabo Mabele? Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
L: The journey certainly does not stop here. In the next five years, I see myself continuing to lead innovative initiatives within Library and Information Services, contributing to policy development, and expanding digital literacy and inclusive curation efforts across Cape Town. I am also interested in further research, mentorship, and strengthening the role of libraries as transformative community spaces. Ultimately, I hope to continue growing as a person who inspires change and empowers both staff and communities through knowledge and innovation.
As many of you know, here at Library & Information Services, we are incredibly fortunate to have a team of dedicated and passionate individuals. And recently, one such individual became a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication and a genuine love for what you do. We are absolutely delighted to announce that our very own Linda Ntaka from Library and Information Services has been named the LIASA UKS Librarian of the Year 2025! This is an extraordinary achievement awarded annually at the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA) conference, and it celebrates truly outstanding leadership and excellence within our profession.
Each year, librarians from across our beautiful country are nominated for this prestigious accolade and to see Linda’s name selected is a moment of immense pride for all of us. It’s a testament to the remarkable contributions she’s made to the field. Linda’s career has been marked by a tireless commitment to advancing library services.
From her impactful tenure as LIASA National Public Relations Officer (2020-2023) to her dynamic leadership as Area East Sub-Area Head overseeing nine libraries, Linda has consistently demonstrated a passion for making a difference. She is also a fervent advocate for creating welcoming and inclusive spaces for everyone, continuing to champion child-friendly access and ensuring our libraries remain tariff-free and fine-free.
Colleagues often affectionately describe her as a “human dynamo,” and I couldn’t agree more. Her boundless energy and unwavering professionalism have significantly elevated public library services not just here in Cape Town, but across the country. This award isn’t just a personal triumph for Linda, it’s a reflection of the high standards and innovative spirit we cultivate in the City’s Library & Information Services department. We are incredibly proud of her success and the positive impact it signifies for the library profession as a whole.
Linda, on behalf of us all, a heartfelt congratulations! Your inspiring leadership continues to motivate us all to dream big and aim high!
