Glenville Fransman, a senior administrative assistant at North-West University’s (NWU's) Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences was recently announced as one of the winners of the Mail & Guardian’s top 40 list of “Why we Serve”.

He was nominated for his excellent service to the community, especially his involvement in youth development programmes.

Glenville is passionate about young people, and these empowerment programmes enable him to share his life experiences with the youth of Potchefstroom, Promosa and Ikageng, warning them about the dangers of substance abuse and gangsterism.

He says his love for community and youth service stems from the mistakes he made while still a young boy.

“I used to live an irresponsible life – a life of gangs and drugs.”

Glenville says he is humbled by the Mail & Guardian’s  acknowledgement.

“I wish to thank them for this recognition. This would not have been possible without the guidance of the Almighty God, leadership by family elders, teachers of Promosa and the community of Ikageng. It’s through this support that I can now assist those less fortunate and in need,” he adds.

According to Glenville, community service is more than just Batho Pele principles.

“Community and customer service should always be about helping others as much as possible, and if need be, going the extra mile,

“As public servants, we need to reach out and provide service beyond our towns, provinces or even beyond our country.”

About Mail & Guardian #WhyWeServeSA

#WhyWeServeSA is a supplement of the Mail & Guardian recognising South Africa’s exceptional and exemplary civil servants. It informs the public about the work public servants do and why they have chosen public service careers, as well as the many ways these services make life better for all of us.

 The NWU’s Glenville Fransman is part of the Mail and Guardian’s top 40 list of ‘Why we Serve’.