Simon Sebokolodi, Advanced Diploma Human Resources Management Cum Laude graduate and the CUT Choir Organist who serenaded the graduates with the Seana Marena melody, the popular cultural Sesotho celebratory song, that is usually played at events. Sebokolodi’s played the song on his organ to complement the euphonious voices from the CUT choristers who also captivated the audience and got the melomaniacs singing along the popular Seana Marena song.

Meet Simon Sebokolodi, the recently Cum Laude in Advanced Diploma Human Resources Management (HRM) graduate and the CUT Choir Organist who serenaded the graduates with the Seana Marena melody.

Born and bred in Welkom, Lejweleputswa District, Simon was raised by parents who are devoted churchgoers. He was introduced to choral music at a very tender age, a hobby that has made him popular among his peers at the Welkom Campus. “Music was not my passion until my high school years at HTS. I joined the school choir, led by Mrs Anderson, who did not just engrave music in my heart but also sparked my interest in playing the piano. I was often captivated by the way she played; she was unique, and her melodies also touched me in ways I could never imagine, and that inspired me to one day play like her.”

Simon learnt how to play the church organ in 2018 and has never looked back. “Being part of the church choir often meant that from time to time, I was tasked to play classical music. This was quite challenging because as a self-taught organist, I could not read the musical notes.  I had to rely heavily on listening and playing by ear, which was very time-consuming,” he said.

Post COVID-19 pandemic, he decided to take his self-taught skill to a professional level and is currently working on his grade 6 piano studies. “I play the organ for CUT choir; I also play for several churches and the Dagbreek Primary School choir. I also assist the school in training their choir for competitions and festivals.”

Proud moments for parents, Mr and Mrs Hume and Kerotse Sebokolodi, as mom congratulates their first-born son and first graduate in the family for his exceptional achievement.

However, Simon added that he sees music as a hobby and not a lifetime career. “I consider music as my hobby. My focus is to build my career as a Human Resource Practitioner.”

He said his graduation brought a sense of pride and accomplishment as it reflects not only his academic excellence but also his dedication and perseverance. “Given the level of commitment to balance my studies, choir participation and piano playing, achieving such an honour feels even more rewarding! For me, it signifies the ability to multi-task and execute tasks successfully. What is more important is a combination of discipline, time management and creativity,” he added. Simon is currently pursuing a postgraduate degree in HRM and hopes to reach the stars!