When 23-year-old Letlhogonolo Thintha stepped onto the podium yesterday to graduate with a diploma in retail business management at Sol Plaatje University, only a select members of university staff knew of his other role at the university.
Thintha, who is the deputy secretary general of the student representative council (SRC), has been the man behind SPU’s first-ever mascot Gemmie, which was launched last year in May.
Gemmie, the gemsbok, is the heart and soul of SPU – and much loved for his energy and entertaining dance moves.
Not even his mates in the SRC knew that Thintha – the tall and lithe lad from Christiana in North West – was the mascot. He had been a well-kept secret until yesterday.
Thintha, who is currently studying for advanced diploma in business management said though he enjoyed bringing joy to students, he is happy to hand over the reins to the next person.
Chosen because of his outgoing and cheerful personality and flexibility, Thintha told Sunday World that being Gemmie had its ups and downs.
“The first time I put on the costume I couldn’t breathe. I couldn’t see properly – I needed to be guided. The costume is heavy and hot,” he laughed.
“Even when you are left alone in the field for example you have to be entertaining and energetic. It is a difficult responsibility, but I enjoyed it,” he said.
He has been grooming potential replacements, but he has left big shoes to fill as he occasionally has to step in at short notice or provide relief for the newbie who is still getting used to the heavy costume.
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