UNSUNG HEROES: THANDEKA SIBEKO TAMES THE BULLRING

For many, stepping into the bustling environment of a facility like the Wanderers might seem daunting.  

For one young woman, Thandeka Sibeko, however, it has been a transformative opportunity that defied her initial expectations.  

Coming from a background deeply entrenched in horticulture and with a National Diploma in hand, she has not only carved out a niche in turf management but has also become a beacon of inspiration for other young women aspiring to enter the male-dominated industry. 

“I've always loved working with plants and nature and working in outdoor spaces. So doing horticulture for me, it allowed me to be in this space and to do what I'm doing now,” Sibeko reflects on her journey. 

“But honestly, I never thought that one day I would work in such an intimidating space in a big organisation like the Wanderers Stadium.”  

A steep learning curve marked her introduction to the world of groundskeeping. Joining the stadium in 2022, she was fortunate to have a mentor in Evan Flint, former three-time CSA Groundsman of the Year.  

The knowledge she gained from Flint and his team has been invaluable, from pitch preparation to maintenance and turf grass management. Now, under her current mentor, Brendon Frost, she continues to evolve in her role, which she describes as both exciting and a great privilege. 

“I learned a lot of things from Evan and his team, it was amazing,” Sibeko said. 

“I learned from preparation of the cricket pitches, maintenance, and operating of almost all the machinery, and now I'm still continuously learning from my now-mentor and supervisor, Brendon Frost.” 

Sibeko’s responsibilities encompass a wide array of tasks critical to maintaining the stadium’s pristine condition. 

“My daily tasks include mowing the outfields, preparing the pitch, marking, setting up sight screens, and managing fertilisation and chemical spraying,” she said. 

“I also make sure that the landscapes and gardens of the Stadium are always paid attention to, in terms of making sure that they look aesthetically pleasing.” 

Sibeko feels that the big crowds attending games at the Wanderers during Betway SA20 provided her with even greater motivation to ensure the stadium was pristine. 

“The SA20 has inspired me to really work hard and pay attention to detail, because everything has to be at the right time, at the right place, and it has to look good,” Sibeko adds.  

However, the path has not always been easy. As a woman in a challenging environment, Sibeko admits it can sometimes be overwhelming. Yet, the support she receives from her team has made all the difference. 

She feels their backing has helped her to break down barriers and build her confidence in her unique position within the stadium's operations. 

“SA20, I can say that it has allowed me to go out of my comfort zone. Being a female in this space is sometimes overwhelming, but it is a great privilege,” Sibeko said. 

“But having a team as appreciative and supportive and loving as the one that I'm working with has pushed me and is always encouraging me to go further and to push and to learn more than I can. 

As she continues to grow in her role at Wanderers, this young horticulturist turned groundskeeper feels that her experience is a powerful message to young girls everywhere.  

“Do not limit yourself. Knock on those doors. You never know which door may open for you,” Sibeko said. 

“And once those doors open for you, just make sure you do your best and be your best.”