Heart-to-heart with Lisebo Sefako
After Matriculating at St John’s D.S.G., Lisebo Sefako (nee Tau, Class of 1999) went on to study a B. Tech qualification in Internal Auditing at the Central University of Technology in Bloemfontein. She began her career as a Junior Internal Auditor at SAB&T audit firm, where she built a solid foundation. Thereafter, she progressed to the Department of Social Development: Free State as a Senior Internal Auditor and was then promoted to Deputy Director: Internal Audit at the then Department of Local Government and Housing: Free State.
Lisebo is a hard-working, loving, humble, family orientated lady and an exceptional listener who loves travelling and exploring South African holiday destinations. She also enjoys cooking and happens to be whiz in the kitchen!
It was an absolute pleasure to catch up with Lisebo for this month’s Heart-to-Heart.
What did you love most about St. John’s D.S.G?
I loved the small intimate environment of the school. One never got “lost in the crowd!” Having being raised in a staunch Christian family, the fact that St John’s D.S.G. is a Christian school made it a preferred choice. Believe it or not, I actually loved Saturday school, because it meant I could spend more time at home during the exeat weekends as we would get the Monday off. The centenary celebrations and activities in 1997, where the absolute highlight of my time at St John’s D.S.G! The Headmistress at the time (Mrs Jill Champion) was also an inspiration to me.
I will forever cherish the career readiness program that we underwent in Grade 10, where we had an opportunity to shadow three different professionals in possible careers that we were interested in. As a result, my passion for auditing was ignited.
What does success mean to you and how did St John’s D.S.G equip you for life after school?
Success for me is the achievement of personal goals, and not what is prescribed by society. St John’s D.S.G. was definitely instrumental in shaping my future, and gearing me up to achieve my goals. For one, the Lectern Club prepared me to become an eloquent speaker. Being a Prefect also shaped my leadership capabilities. I was able to adapt with ease to my busy life schedule, as the school had already prepared me sufficiently. Juggling extra-mural activities (both sport and cultural) with school work and later Prefect responsibilities, was a glimpse into the “future” vicious life cycle. I am actively involved in a number of structures over and above my work and family obligations. My motto (pray, work and play hard) was inspired by the school’s motto: “Laborare est orare – To work is to pray!”
What advice do you have for our current girls and their families?
Rest assured you are in the right place, at the right time! Ladies, enjoy your time at St John’s D.S.G. Seize every opportunity headed your way and participate in the activities. You may not see it now, but you will definitely appreciate it later in life. Parents, consider this as an investment for your daughters’ future, one of the best decisions you’ve made!