Theron Rapoo, who holds a National Diploma in Public Relations Management from Unisa, is the Head of Marketing and Communications at the Rustenburg Rapid Transport agency. His current responsibilities include implementing strategies and ensuring the brand is known and used.
Rapoo has worked for the Royal Bafokeng Sports as a PR Specialist, the Royal Marang Hotel as a Communications Manager and the Platinum Stars Football Club as a Brand Marketing Manager. During the 2010 World Cup, Rapoo was the Assistant Public Relations Manager for the host stadium.
Education is an important pillar
“I began my career in 2009 when I was accredited as a Chartered Public Relations Practitioner (CPRP) by PRISA (Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa),” says Rapoo.
This qualified professional photographer is currently completing a BA Honours in Integrated Organisational Communication at Unisa, a Management Development programme at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, and a radio and TV presenting qualification at Oakfields College.
Rapoo has also travelled to the United Arab Emirates, Europe and the US to enhance his branding and public relations skills. “This was done with the assistance of big organisations such as Universal Studios and Emirates Airlines,” he explains.
Giving back to the community
Rapoo is passionate about community engagement and manages several corporate social investment projects as part of his daily work. “Over the years, I have helped over ten Grade-12 learners from humble backgrounds to get financial assistance and university placements.” One of them is now a qualified medical doctor who studied in Cuba. Others have qualified as actuaries, industrial engineers, and psychologists.
“I launched a learner assistance programme, and their pass rate grew from 74% to 85%,” he says. His former high school previously struggled to obtain a 100% Grade-12 pass rate. However, since he started hosting motivational talks and coaching sessions, students’ results have changed for the better.
The programme is supported by a group of doctors in Johannesburg and Rustenburg. The doctors visit schools on weekends with their friends to present life coaching, team-building sessions, and motivational talks. With the help of the Department of Social Development Services, they teach learners to make the best of their circumstances and succeed as individuals.
“If I look back, I realise that many people have motivated me. I am proud of what we have achieved through the programme, and we reach new milestones daily,” he says.
“Unisa has helped me to attain great heights, and I look forward to completing my honours and registering for my master’s and, after that, my PhD,” concludes Rapoo.
Article submitted by Theron Rapoo, assisted by Busisiwe Mahlangu, Communication Coordinator, Institutional Advancement
Publish date: 2022-06-23 00:00:00.0