The Mt Kenya Times 
Rev Roux Malan, Capetown Unitarian
Every child deserves someone who believes in them.
And truth is, adults need that the most too.
I met Rev Roux Malan on the eve of 2019, just before Covid.
I was searching. Searching for a nearby Unitarian Universalist congregation in Africa. I reached out to four people across the continent. Only one responded.
He did.
I was looking for a faith that felt like home.
As a Baha’i, I loved the concept of the oneness of religion. But I still carried a hollow feeling. I was seeking a faith that would let an African be African. A faith that would not judge ancestral beliefs or worship, but walk with them.
After months of searching, Rev Roux answered.
And what started as messages became a year-long “Umkholo Apprentice” — our equivalent of a Level One Lay Leader course.
The biggest highlight for me was learning social action. Service to others, without expecting anything back.
We did a deep study of the Book of Mark. Through Mark the disciple, I gained knowledge of faith that I later translated and shared with others.
That season opened doors for me. I started Alison short courses, Udemy, and Coursera. Learning without losing a single pula. My mind was stretching.
From there I began my formal quest in theology with World Christian University. That’s where I began to understand what Christianity truly is.
In 2022–2023 I did my first official Unitarian lay leader course with Rev Nima, and together we began building a solid Unitarian group right here in Botswana.
Through it all, Rev Roux was there. Quietly. Steadily. Guiding.
Even when I started writing books, he was there — holding my hand through the process.
What began as mentor and mentee became family.
In 2024, we made it physical. I traveled to Cape Town with my friend Otsile Pule to meet the congregation for the first time. To feel, touch, and experience the Unitarian community in person.
It was sacred. And after that, we never lost touch.
Mentorship only works when the learner is willing.
I think of my GBV Mulher Forte projects — born out of my love for writing and community work. Women and children need to be safe. But talking about it and acting on it is what makes the difference. That fire came from the seeds Rev Roux planted in me.
Sometimes when an athlete wins a big championship, no one remembers the coach.
So today I’m putting it on record: I give credit to my mentor, Rev Roux.
Because of him, I felt heard.
I found a leader.
I found a father.
He is exactly one day older than my mother, born in the same year. And I never had a biological father.
So to have someone who nods, who guides, who holds your hand even when he’s not physically there — that means everything.
“Thank you” will never be enough.
But I am proud of the woman I have become because of his leadership and guidance.
Today, on your birthday, I wish you nothing but more life, more health, and more joy, Rev Roux.
May you continue to coach, to guide, and to believe — because it changes lives.
With love and gratitude,
_From your mentee in Botswana
Ze Paula
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