Kelly Manus.
Image: Supplied
After a difficult and tumultuous journey, 26-year-old Kelly Manus has recently secured permanent employment as a teacher, marking a significant milestone after bravely speaking out about the abuse she endured.
Manus, a former educator at Symphony High School in Belhar, accused a former colleague of sexually violating her.
She shared her story in a viral video on social media, where she revealed how she was bullied and victimised after reporting the incident to the school's acting principal, who also happened to be the wife of the alleged perpetrator.
Speaking on behalf of Kelly Manus, spokesperson Vanessa Le Roux shared insight into Manus's emotional journey and reflections on the struggles she faced. "When I asked Kelly to reflect on the journey, she commented that she could only see the hand of God," Le Roux began. "We know this has not been an easy path for her, and the road to speaking out, especially, was filled with uncertainty and doubt."
Le Roux added that Manus had questioned whether she should stay silent and allow the injustices she faced to continue, or whether she should speak up, seek help, and bring awareness to her situation. "It’s a tough decision for anyone, especially when the stakes are so high," Le Roux said.
Le Roux recalled how hurt Manus was when she was told that she would no longer be accommodated.
Vanessa Le Roux held Kelly Manus' hand through her battle
Image: Supplied
“She later learnt that some of her learners left school after she was forced to leave.
“Kelly impacted so many learners Iives, who relied on her during difficult times.
“Despite the loss, she now finds comfort knowing that the values she instilled in them over the years continue to resonate.
“They often call to tell her how much they miss the morning prayers and encouragement she gave them every day, and thats what carried her through as well, the words from her learners.”
Le Roux described the permanent appointment of Manus as a teacher, as a victory.
“To all women: Your voice is valid. Your feelings are valid. You will be heard. Don’t let anyone silence you. There are people who can help. Speak up. You don’t have to go through this alone. With God in your corner, you are never alone—He is a girl dad, and He stands up for His girls,” Le Roux encouraged.
Le Roux concluded that criminal procedures are also in process.
When contacted for a statement, Manus had little to add besides her gratitude towards Le Roux for standing by her side throughout the process.
"From the moment the messages came flooding in, Vanessa held my hand, and even now, as those messages have quieted, she still remains by my side," Manus shared.
"She has been my guiding light, and I believe I would not have survived this journey if God had not sent her my way. I truly wish there were more Vanessas out there to support those whose voices have been silenced."
Parents, teachers, and community members picket outside Symphony High School in Belhar in support of teacher Kelly Manus.
Image: Henk Kruger/Independent Newspapers
In closing, Manus expressed her appreciation for the outpouring of support she has received, thanking millions of viewers and social media creators who used their platforms to spread awareness. "I’ve learned that as a nation, we can come together to support one another," Manus said.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) spokesperson Bronagh Hammond commented on Manus’ employment status: "There was an application to have the teacher permanently employed, but it was soon revealed that we could not proceed as she did not have a permanent SACE registration."
Hammond went on to explain that after alerting Manus to this issue, she has now obtained her permanent SACE certificate.
"The school will upload a new application for her to be converted to permanent with the SACE certificate so that the application can be processed as planned."
Regarding the teacher referred to in Manus’ allegations, Hammond added: “The alleged perpetrator has been dealt with in accordance with the applicable laws and disciplinary procedures.
“The investigation and subsequent process did not warrant dismissal, and appropriate procedural steps were followed.”
Weekend Argus