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?Katlego Letlonkane is a familiar face on the Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU) campus. Many staff members know her as the dynamic facilitator of the Siyakhula workshops and other transformation initiatives. Letlonkane, who is Programme Manager for Diversity Capacity Development at Human Resources (HR), is also a popular radio presenter of SiyakhulaLive on MFM92.6, a show that connects with SU staff and students.

What people may not be aware of is that our colleague's title recently changed – she is now Dr Letlonkane!

The newly capped doctor is clearly not one for fanfare. Her recent graduation with an LLD in mercantile law was a quiet affair. “I didn't want my doctorate to take over my life," she explains. “That's why I didn't mention it too often. I was intentional in giving myself grace so that I didn't feel overwhelmed by expectations."

This understated approach belies the significance of her research. Letlonkane's achievement is particularly notable as she is the first doctoral candidate to be supervised by Prof Thuli Madonsela, the esteemed former Public Protector and current Director of SU's Centre for Social Justice. Prof Theo Broodryk, manager of SU's Law Clinic, was the co-supervisor.

Letlonkane's dissertation delved into the social justice mandate of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), a crucial body in South Africa's labour landscape. The study critically examines the role of CCMA commissioners in addressing workplace inequality.

Letlonkane's research advocates for a transformative approach that integrates the philosophy of Ubuntu, emphasising the interconnectedness of people, and seeks to empower CCMA commissioners as active agents of social justice.  

A passion for social justice has always been a driving force in her life, Letlonkane explains, adding that her experience as a labour lawyer shaped her perspective. “I was thinking of labour law not only in the sense of rules and processes, but how equitable workplaces are created. If we see workplaces as microcosms of society, then getting them right – driving equity and transforming workplace culture – lays the foundation for broader justice and social change."

How companies and organisations treat their staff can have ripple effects into broader society, she asserts. “If people are paid fairly and workplace cultures truly embrace equity and inclusivity, then the values we practise during our working hours such as fairness, equity and justice will naturally carry over into our homes and communities."

Unlike the more legalistic labour courts, the CCMA offers a platform for mediation and conciliation, bringing workers and employers together to resolve disputes. Letlonkane argued that the CCMA has a unique power to advance fairness and equality in the workplace. “The CCMA can address issues at grassroots level and make a meaningful change start there," she remarks.

Her LLD delved into the complexities of social justice within the labour context, exploring issues such as intersectionality and power dynamics. She posed critical questions about how CCMA commissioners can ensure fairness in situations involving significant power asymmetries and bias in labour relations.  

Supported by her supervisors, she approached her research with a unique blend of academic rigour and human-centred compassion that breathed new life into the concept of workplace equity. “My supervisors were very kind and respectful of my voice," she affirms. “It takes a lot of grace to see the raw, unedited parts of your writing and help shape them into a dissertation."

Madonsela says it was an honour to guide Letlonkane through her “extraordinary" doctoral research. “We believe that it will catalyse greater awareness of the social justice mandate of the CCMA commissioners and that of courts, giving practitioners tools to mainstream an Ubuntu-centric social justice ethos in employment dispute resolution," Madonsela notes.

Balancing her studies with her role in HR was challenging, but Letlonkane found ways to integrate her academic work with professional responsibilities. In her HR role, she manages the Siyakhula Diversity Capacity Development Programme, which promotes diversity and inclusion. “It all lives together," Letlonkane explains, emphasising the interconnectedness of her work and studies.

Over the past few years, Letlonkane cultivated a strong sense of self-care. Yoga and gym classes are part of her daily routine. “Working out became a way to literally work things out. It slowed me down. It taught me that I can only do what I can do today. Tomorrow, I will come back and try again."

Letlonkane is humbled by the privilege she had in pursuing her LLD for free as an SU staff member. “It's something I don't take for granted. I always tell colleagues: if you work at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票, why not invest time in obtaining a degree from SU?"

As for the new title, she laughs: “Yes, I think I might have 'Dr' included on my bank card! And definitely on the office door sign. I didn't like being called Miss very much. So, if one must refer to me by a title, Dr Letlonkane will do, otherwise my beautiful name, Katlego, works very well."

PHOTO: Stefan Els

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