Mzansi to UCT 'deputy mother' Mamokgethi Phakeng: 'You are not mediocre'

08 April 2019 - 08:27 By Cebelihle Bhengu

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UCT vice-chancellor Mamokgethi Phakeng.
Image: Esa Alexander

UCT vice-chancellor Mamokgethi Phakeng has received an outpouring of love and support on Twitter after she opened up on the platform, saying the past few weeks have been a challenge for her.

'Deputy mother', as she is fondly known among UCT students, was responding to the infamous "O jewa ke eng" tweet, which loosely translates to 'what's eating you' or 'what's bothering you'.

In a tweet that has since been liked more than 4,000 times and shared more than 700 times, Phakeng said: "It's been an extremely demanding past few weeks. Some tasks I nailed, I was mediocre in others and I hang my head in shame for those I was disastrous in."

Its been an extremely demanding past few weeks. Some tasks i nailed, I was mediocre in others & I hang my head in shame for those I was disastrous in. Hard work wasnt enough. Now I just want to pray for the week starting tomorrow & then sleep away the failures of this week. https://t.co/LXzVntyTLq
— Mamokgethi Phakeng (@FabAcademic) April 6, 2019

Tweeps and UCT students were quick to take to the comments to convey messages of support, to remind her that she too is human, saying she must not to be too hard on herself, while some expressed gratitude for the support and guidance she constantly shows.

It’s not failure. You’re progressing and along the way mistakes and bottlenecks will occur. You already awaiting on the new week to bring about positive change means you’re undefeated, from now on...you’ll hear only good news and see good work!
— Inno (@innomatijane) April 7, 2019

Your realness is empowering!
— #SmallBusinessAcademy (@LusiBliss) April 6, 2019

We love you, keep going. I'm extremely proud of you. Keep going, keep your head up...never give up.
— Sizwe Phungwayo (@Sizwe_Phungwayo) April 6, 2019

you see Mother, this word mediocre does not fit in any vocab that defines what you seek to do or achieve, just say you failed in other things. dont be too hard on yourself, you are human after all.
this week was epic, it should be celebrated, Dr. P made it successfully😊😊😊
— Abisael (@abisaelSA) April 6, 2019

I don't know whether it's possible to reach this level of leadership. You've set the standards too high no wonder almost every child refers to you as deputy mom even though you said you are only deputy mother to UCT students (my young sister was hurt).anyway You are the best mama
— Mamela kwedini (@tyhiniMadoda) April 6, 2019

You’re what’s keeping us going. You’ve got this 🙏🏽♥️
— Mrs Incredible (@ZamiXulu) April 6, 2019

We're beyond proud of you mama, you've carried so many of us on your back and you still continue to do so without complaining. We live and we learn, get the rest you deserve 😘❤❤❤❤
— HouseOfBNG 🚀🚀😍 (@JunieMokwele) April 6, 2019