UNSUNG HEROES: MEET CENTURION'S MAMA ROSE

In the vibrant backdrop of Centurion, a spirit of joy and commitment shines through the reflections of Rose Laka, the beloved housekeeper who has dedicated the majority of her life to maintaining the storied venue.

A familiar figure, Rose's journey is not only about her professional accomplishments but also about her profound connection to the sport and her community.

“I am very happy,” Rose exclaimed, her infectious smile radiating warmth as she spoke about starting here as a temporary employee back in 1978 before many of the current structures at Centurion were even built.

Despite the passage of years, her enthusiasm for the work and her love for sports have remained undiminished. Rose's role at Centurion may not always take the limelight, but her commitment to creating an inviting environment for players and fans alike speaks volumes.

Despite being an avid Kaizer Chiefs football fan, Rose’s love for cricket far exceeds her passion for the Amakhosi.

“I would much rather watch cricket instead if it's playing on the day, especially if it's the Titans, Capitals or Proteas,” she said. “They even know I get angry or cry when they get defeated.”

Rose's experiences reflect a microcosm of the relationships that sports can forge, where individuals come together to celebrate achievements and camaraderie, especially with Betway SA20 having helped her improve her daily life.

“To me SA20 has brought a lot of joy to me because I was able to do a lot of things like buying a second property. I am grateful for SA20,” she said.

Among her many joys, Rose treasures family ties that tether her to both her profession and her passion for sports. Her unique perspective as a citizen of the SA20, as she calls it, depicts a vision of belonging and responsibility to her community.

It is this that fuels her desire to remain engaged as Pastor within her community, signalling her unwavering commitment to contribute positively beyond just her role as housekeeper.