A Full Circle: My Journey with Kagiso and Mohau Chepape

In 1994, as a young teacher at the Deutsche Schule Pretoria, I, Ute Acton took over teaching the first Saturday morning class for Grade 4 learners from our partner schools in Mamelodi and Eersterus.

Among the approximately 75 eager young faces was a shy, quiet boy named Kagiso Chepape. Every Saturday, he arrived ready to learn. We studied Mathematics, English and even German, building not only knowledge but also a strong bond that would last a lifetime.

At the end of the year, some of the learners were invited to join the school permanently as a Grade 5 class. Among them was Kagiso. I had the privilege of becoming his class teacher, guiding him through Grade 5 and Grade 6 in 1995 and 1996. Kagiso was always polite, diligent and kind— a learner who left a lasting impression.

In 2002, I left the school to explore new avenues, but my passion for teaching never faded. I returned many times as a substitute teacher and later as a private or remedial tutor, supporting learners who needed extra help. I have remained part of the school community in this role for many years now.

Then, at the end of 2024, I was asked if I would take over a Grade 2 class from January to April 2025. I agreed, unaware of the beautiful surprise that awaited me. On my first day, I looked into the face of a small version of Kagiso Chepape—his son, Mohau.

Kagiso, who has been a dedicated teacher and coach at the school for many years now, is still a familiar face. But now, to be the teacher of his young son, guiding him just as I guided his father all those years ago, feels like life has come full circle.

Teaching the class, and especially teaching Mohau, is a privilege and a joy—much like it was with his father. And as I watch him learn and grow, I can’t help but feel like a proud grandmother, once again nurturing a young Chepape on his journey.