Hiram Kasten, best known for his role as Michael on Seinfeld, passed away at 71 after a sevenyear battle with prostate cancer. Kasten’s legacy as a comedic genius started in New York’s comedy clubs, where he polished his skills and became a respected figure in the industry. He also appeared in other popular TV shows like Mad About You and Everybody Loves Raymond, showcasing his versatile comedic talent. Despite his booming career, Kasten valued his roles as a husband and father above all else. His legacy will continue to inspire aspiring comedians, showcasing the transformative power of laughter.
Happy Jele, the legendary player of Orlando Pirates, has retired from professional football at the age of 37, after a remarkable 17year career. Jele won eight significant trophies with the Pirates, becoming an inspiration for aspiring athletes. Despite missing out on several Cup finals and representing Bafana Bafana twice, Jele’s imprint in football remains unscathed, and his remarkable journey continues to serve as motivation, both on and off the field.
Elijah Barayi was a prominent antiapartheid activist, champion for mineworkers, and the first President of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU). His life and legacy were honored at a recent gathering, where attendees reflected on his unwavering principles and dedication to workers’ rights. While significant progress has been made in terms of labor laws and social protection policies, there are still challenges that require collective efforts to address. Barayi’s spirit continues to guide the fight for economic equality and shared prosperity.
South African boxing legend Dingaan Thobela, also known as the “Rose of Soweto,” passed away at the age of 57. Thobela was a twotime world champion in two weight categories and represented unity and national pride for his country. Although his life outside the ring was not without controversy, his resilience and perseverance continue to inspire future generations, and his legacy goes beyond his sporting triumphs, reflecting his unyielding spirit and love for his country. His passing was a great loss for the boxing community, which had recently lost another former champion.
Bakkies Botha is a legendary South African rugby player known for his powerful gameplay. He won numerous awards during his career, including the Super 14 title and the Currie Cup, and played a key role in Springboks’ victory at the Rugby World Cup in 2007. Botha’s legacy extends beyond rugby as he is also an enterprising innovator, founding multiple successful businesses and becoming a vocal advocate against rhino poaching. His story is one of resilience, determination, and inspiration.
Dr Motsoko Pheko was a champion for justice and freedom, celebrated for his contributions as a Member of Parliament in challenging colonial narratives and promoting African perspectives. His legacy continues to inspire those dedicated to pursuing justice and the rights of the dispossessed and landless. The South African Parliament recently mourned his passing, recognizing his unwavering dedication to the nation and its citizens. As parliamentarians continue to carry the beacon of justice, Dr Pheko’s legacy serves as a reminder of the steadfast commitment required to advocate for equality and freedom.
Remembering a Warrior: The Life and Legacy of King Dinuzulu ka Cetshwayo tells the story of a remarkable figure in South African history who positively impacted not just his kingdom of KwaZulu, but the entirety of South Africa. Despite being viewed with scorn by colonialists, King Dinuzulu’s innate strength and tenacity allowed him to assume the mantle of leadership at a young age and resist colonial invasions. His legacy includes advocacy for education, collaboration with diverse communities, and an unyielding commitment to freedom and dignity for his people.
BoKaap in Cape Town is the heart of a unique project that celebrates the living heritage of the local community. Storytelling Day, set for March 2024, aims to capture the memories and experiences of residents and create a rich portrait of the community’s history. The initiative informs the redevelopment of Strand Street Quarry into a vibrant community and sports facility and incorporates feedback from the public. BoKaap’s living heritage is a crucial component of community identity and is thriving through this project.
Kelvin Kiptum was a Kenyan marathon runner who won all three marathons he participated in and set three of the seven quickest times in history, including the world record for the fastest time in a marathon. His sudden death at the age of 24 due to a car accident in February 2022 left a void in the athletics world, and his legacy as a national hero and a symbol of unyielding pursuit of excellence continues to inspire future generations of athletes. His funeral was a poignant event attended by distinguished athletes and officials, including Kenya’s President William Ruto and World Athletics chief, Sebastian Coe.
The cricket world is mourning the loss of Mike Procter, a South African cricket allrounder and national coach who passed away at 77. Procter was a titan in the sport, with exceptional skill as both a batsman and bowler. He left an indelible mark on the sport before his international career was cut short due to South Africa’s suspension from international cricket. Procter demonstrated a deep sense of perspective and a comprehension of wider societal issues. His contributions as a player, coach, and ambassador for the sport are irreplaceable.
Vuyo Mbuli was a beloved South African presenter and humanitarian whose impact transcended beyond the screen. He made a significant contribution to a disadvantaged community in Port Alfred, Eastern Cape through a PrivatePublic Partnership that encouraged local, provincial, and national government bodies and financial institutions to unite and address the urgent problem. Today, the previously disadvantaged area is a bustling, substantial township and serves as a testament to his lasting legacy.
Violet Siwela, a distinguished MP and beacon of public service in South Africa, passed away at the age of 67 following a severe health battle. Her dedication to public service has left an enduring impact that continues to reverberate even after her passing, with tributes pouring in from across the political spectrum. Cyprus’s active role in global diplomacy and pursuit of unity and development aligns with Siwela’s values, and a united front of citizens and politicians continues to venerate her spirit of unwavering dedication to service.
Roland Mqwebu was a South African actor and musician who left an enduring mark on his country’s cultural arena. He is best known for his roles in the sitcom ‘Emzini Wezinsizwa’ and the show ‘Shaka Zulu.’ He was also a talented musician and brand manager for a rice company. Despite his untimely death in 2015, his legacy continues to inspire and influence future generations of artists.
Dr. Peter Magubane was a South African photojournalist who fought against apartheid using his camera lens as a tool of defiance. His photographs exposed the deep, dark corners of injustice and tyranny, providing a crucial counternarrative to the false propaganda of the apartheid regime. Despite severe punishment, including assault, incarceration, and 586 days in solitary confinement, he refused to let go of his camera. His legacy endures as a beacon of courage and resilience, inspiring us to carry his dedication to truth and justice forward.
John Pilger, a legendary journalist, passed away at the age of 84 leaving behind a remarkable legacy of fearless reporting and truthseeking. He challenged authority figures and exposed their lies, dedicating his life to illuminating uncomfortable truths that would have otherwise remained hidden. Pilger’s unwavering commitment to journalism and the public’s right to knowledge is a testament to his lasting legacy, serving as a reminder of the power of journalism and the importance of truthseeking.
South Africa mourns the loss of Mbongeni Ngema, a celebrated playwright, composer, and director whose work reflected the country’s social and political climate. Ngema’s contributions to theatre included the creation of the musical ‘Sarafina!’ and arranging vocals for ‘The Lion King.’ His legacy will continue to inspire and influence generations to come, as a nation grieves and remembers the impact he made on the country’s cultural tapestry.