From Monday to Friday, Reuben Khangwelo Netshivhera, a General Worker at the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), ensures facilities are spick and span. When the weekend comes, Reuben jumps into the role of a shepherd, herding God’s people towards the truth as Pastor of Light of Full Gospel Ministry in Ruigtesloot, North West province. The 29-year-old hails from Gondeni La Ha Mabilu, a village outside Thohoyandou, Limpopo. He joined the City three years ago. His responsibilities include maintaining a tidy workspace, handling maintenance tasks, and helping wherever needed.
“What I truly love is the ability to bring positivity and generosity to my workplace. Whether it’s a small act of kindness or ensuring that the environment is welcoming for everyone, I find joy in making a positive impact,” Reuben says.
He founded the church in 2016 and travels about 400km every weekend to lead his flock towards the light. Reuben says his inspiration and strength comes from Rev NM Tshivhase, who has been a mentor throughout his journey.
Raised in a Christian family, Netshivhera always had a feeling that he will stand before thousands of people and share the word of God.
He was part of the church’s youth groups at Frans Rasimphi Secondary School, where he matriculated in 2012. He believes that laid a foundation for who he is today.
“Through my upbringing, I have learned to put God first in everything. I recognised the beauty that comes with His presence in every aspect of life. Being part of those churches at Frans Rasimphi Secondary youth groups was like finding a second family and creating bonds of friendship while serving the community. Those experiences ignited a fire in me for a lifetime of meaningful service,” says Reuben.
From juggling roles of being a father, a congregational leader to being a dedicated City employee, Reuben says he finds guidance in his favourite Bible verse, John 9:4, which says: “As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming when no one can work.”
Reuben says it is through grace and faith that he can find the perfect balance between his professional duties and personal life.
Outside the office, he finds joy in attending gospel music concerts and values spending quality time with his four children.
He aspires to open more branches of his ministry to spread the message of Jesus.
Reuben encourages his colleagues to include God in everything they do, believing that faith and kindness can transform not only individuals’ lives but also the spirit of a workplace.
Written by Getrude Mamabolo
Employee Communication Intern