Nothing is more satisfying to me than serving my country,” states Thilivhali Ratshitanga. Thilivhali is the Deputy Director: Media Research, Analysis and Speechwriting at the Department of International Relations and Co-operation, where he’s involved in conceptualising, researching and drafting speeches for the Minister.

Thilivhali always had an interest in international relations and politics, and his interest increased when two of his uncles were incarcerated in Venda, for political reasons.

During high school, his interest grew even stronger. Upon learning about the United Nations and the League of Nations, and during the Gulf War, when media reports frequently made reference to diplomatic efforts, he began to consider this career path.

Thilivhali began his career as a coordinator during the World Summit on Sustainable Development, in 2002. He says, “When I had some spare time, I asked my supervisor if I could add value to his writing assignments, rather than just coordinate foreign affairs documents. In my second job at the Ekurhuleni Municipality, I didn’t have a specific job description, so I negotiated with my boss to add speechwriting as one of my key performance areas. It went from there, and I was hired as a speechwriter in the department formerly known as Foreign Affairs.”

Working hours are usually from 08:00–16:30, but Thilivhali often works longer hours, because of pressing deadlines. He quotes Martin Luther King Jr. with the words, “Blessed are those who toil through the night while their companions sleep.”

He says, “An average day consists of drafting and reworking speeches for the Minister and meeting deadlines for a variety of tasks.” He also assists senior management of the directorate in strategising and implementing the business plan. This, in turn, affects the business plan of the Public Diplomacy branch and that of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, as a whole.

Because a large portion of his job requires language and writing skills, it’s essential that the speechwriter enjoys reading and writing. Thilivhali clarifies, “Good speechwriters are people who enjoy reading

Interest in current affairs and, more specifically, politics, is essential, as one’s work needs to be in sync with the country’s political dynamics, as well as the ruling party’s mandate.”

Thilivhali lists the necessary skills as: writing skills; editing skills; project management and other management skills; knowledge of foreign policy; time management; patience; good interpersonal skills; and strategic/analytical thinking skills. Candidates must be willing to travel frequently, as speechwriters often travel internationally with Ministers to assist with the adjustment of speeches for different audiences.

He says, “I derive a great deal of job satisfaction from knowing that I’m contributing to the betterment of my country. Speechwriters constantly have to remind themselves not to tire or quit, as their daily tasks often go unrecognised, but remember the bigger picture and reward of contri-buting positively to the improvement of South Africa.”

Ultimately, his aspirations are to become an ambassador, as he’s passionate about serving his country. He explains, “As an ambassador, I’d use my skills for the betterment of our people, ensuring that the dividends of our foreign engagements are reaped by our people and contributing towards pushing back the frontiers    of poverty.”

Qualifications for this position depend on the core mandate of each specific department, but a BA, majoring in International Relations, Politics, Economics and Development Studies, provides a good background.

Thilivhali advises, “Find what you love and make money doing it! Don’t limit your prospects on the basis of what you’ve studied, because, with regard to writing, if you have passion, the rest will follow. Patience and focus are key attributes. Instead of standing on the margins and complaining about the government, get actively involved. Be the difference that you want to see.” 

Jeanne du Plessis