Hailing from the Clau-Clau township in Mpumalanga, Thembinkosi Blessing Ngomane always aspired to be a change agent in his community. He knew that to make that happen, he had to get educated. It was after completing his BA Honours at the University of Venda that the academic bug bit him. Ngomane joined the University of South Africa as a junior lecturer in the Department of African Languages and continued his studies, obtaining his Master's in African Languages.

His thesis, entitled "Gender equality as depicted in selected Siswati folktales", critically investigated the depiction of gender equality in selected Siswati folktales. The study sought to examine how both genders are depicted in folktales and the effects of revealing shared responsibility and gender roles in these tales. The study explored the relationship between equality in folktales and in real-life situations. To achieve the study's objective, Ngomane used qualitative research methods to collect data. The data was collected from nine Siswati folklore books, where 13 Siswati folktales were sampled using purposive sampling. The study's overall findings showed that Siswati folktales are important cultural resources that can support gender equality because they are accessible, deeply ingrained in society's values, and offer a space for introspection and reinterpretation rather than merely being entertaining or telling stories. Depicting men and women as equally significant members of society is virtually nonexistent in these folktales.

Ngomane hopes that his research will contribute to the body of knowledge by examining and challenging traditional social norms. It promoted equality and fairness and encouraged the sharing of responsibilities between men and women. He further added that researchers and academics would gain a deeper understanding of equality in folktales and real-life situations. "Societies will also benefit from this study by reflecting on folktales and their teachings, promoting shared responsibilities, building gender equality, and ultimately fostering respect between men and women."

Currently, Ngomane is a registered Doctor of Philosophy in languages student with his research title: "Archiving Siswati folktales digitally: Exploring online storytelling". The topic aligns with Unisa’s Catalytic niche area 6.

He extended his gratitude to Dr Remah Lubambo, his supervisor, for her patience, guidance and encouragement throughout his studies. He further acknowledged Dr Matsie Mokuoane, Jacky Nkosi, Dr Relate Mnisi and Pocia Thete, who always opened their doors when he knocked for help, answered his questions, and provided clarity on his research journey. "I want to extend my gratitude to my lovely wife, son and daughter, who continued to support me even during the hard times of my research journey. Their support motivated me to keep pushing to achieve my goals."

* By Nnana Martina Jege, Communications and Marketing, College of Human Sciences