22 November and the Farewell coincides with a historic weekend in South Africa, as the G20 Summit takes place in Johannesburg.
This weekend, as the eyes of the world turned to South Africa for the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, ASSITEJ South Africa held its own pivotal gathering. During our Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in Cape Town, Johannesburg and online, we took a moment to express our immense gratitude and bid farewell to a lifelong serving member of our community and long-standing board member, Ismail Mahomed, as he steps down from the Board.
Dear Ismail,
How do we even begin to thank someone who thinks, acts, leads—and yes, speaks—at the speed of light? Your fast-paced delivery has kept us all wonderfully alert over the years, and if nothing else, you’ve single-handedly proven that attentive listening is, indeed, a sport.
Your commitment to ASSITEJ South Africa has been nothing short of extraordinary. You’ve been a steadfast governance guide, the kind of seasoned leader who not only knows the rules but knows why they matter—and ensures the rest of us do too. You’ve brought wisdom, integrity, and a fierce sense of duty to every meeting, every challenge, and every opportunity.
At heart, you are a teacher—patient, clear, generous, and always ready to pass on knowledge with intention and care (even if we have to play it back in slow-motion later). You have a gift for bringing people together, making them feel seen, valued, and encouraged. It’s no wonder your presence lights up a room and strengthens a community.
And of course, we cannot forget your legendary attention to detail. Nothing escapes you—nothing. If there’s a comma out of place, a policy that needs refining, or a thought we haven’t fully considered, you’re the first to spot it and the last to let it slide. It’s this precision that has helped shape ASSITEJ South Africa into the strong, principled organisation it is today.
Ismail, thank you for the years of dedication, the heart you’ve poured into our mission, the laughter you’ve shared, and the high standards you’ve helped us uphold. We are deeply grateful—richer, wiser, and stronger because of you.
Go well, dear Ismail. While the G20 summit may dominate the headlines this weekend, for us, your legacy is the story that matters most.
by Coach Lindiwe Msiza – ASSITEJ South Africa Board Member
