Hector Motau is the founder of The Motivation Company, formerly known as Marang. Since its formation 10 years ago, the company has focused on motivating, equipping and training people to “discover and live by their purpose”. It does this with uniquely formulated, outcomes-based and customised methodologies that have proved helpful to individuals and companies alike.
Motau obtained a diploma in public administration at the Tshwane University of Technology and a certificate in business psychology and human behaviour from Unisa. He has become a sought-after motivational personality. And his current clients include national and provincial government departments, parastatals and corporations, such as Eskom and the SABC.
How old are you?
38 (I can’t believe it!)
How do you earn a living?
I do motivational speaking, team-building facilitation and presiding at events.
Where did you grow up?
Madidi Village, in North West.
Where and when did you start your primary schooling?
At Madidi Primary School in 1978. I started high school in 1987 at Ntolo High School, also in Madidi. I spent 1988 and 1989 at Mabopane High School in then-Bophuthatswana. From 1991 to 1993, I studied at TUT Soshanguve Campus (formerly TNT).
Did you have favourite teachers?
Oh yes. Mr Manganye at primary school and Mrs Selwane at middle school.
Why were you so fond of them?
They were very encouraging, especially Mrs Selwane, and I think I liked her because of her firm but caring nature. It is also because she taught my favourite subjects. She was strict but believed in us.
What influence did they have on you?
Mrs Selwane helped me to believe in my dream. When I revealed that I was interested in becoming a radio personality, she encouraged me.
Do you still have contact with them?
Unfortunately, no. I need to improve in this area. I saw her recently at a wedding where I was master of ceremonies and she was so proud of me, and it was my chance to thank her and acknowledge her contribution in making me who I am today.
What were your favourite subjects and why?
I enjoyed English and history. Since I believe in purpose, I think the Creator put the interest in me as part of my ammunition for what I was born to do. It so happens that my work requires that I have an excellent command of the language. With history, I was just fascinated with people like Napoleon and Alexander the Great. I wondered why and how they achieved what they did.
From your point of view, what are the qualities of a good teacher?
A good teacher should have care and compassion, good communication skills, a sense of humour, superior subject knowledge and a passion for teaching.
What are the things a teacher should never do or say?
No matter how angry the children can make you, never curse them, please! Saying things like, “You are a fool”, “You will amount to nothing!”, “You won’t pass”, and so on, is inappropriate. Never smoke or get drunk in the learners’ presence.
What message do you have for teachers in South Africa?
Educate with passion and believe in the children you are educating. When you believe in them, it makes it easier for them to believe in themselves. Remember that, by educating them today, you are contributing to a better tomorrow. Please listen to or read the lyrics of The Greatest Love of All.
The Motivation Company can be reached on 011 234 9000 / 5050 or 072 129 7234