.jpg) |
| Thabiso Sikwane passed away this past Saturday. Image: Thulani Mbele |
Radio personality Thabiso Sikwane, who turned 50 in July, was scheduled to celebrate her 50th birthday on August 31 but died on the morning of the festivities. Sikwane was the ex-wife of revered radio broadcaster Thato “DJ Fresh” Sikwane and left behind three children. Sikwane was expected to celebrate her 50th birthday on Saturday, the day she passed away. She was on a missionary trip and decided to celebrate her birthday in the service of the Lord.
Sikwane used to host Kaya FM’s Breakfast Show alongside David O'Sullivan and comedian Jason Goliath. They shared their shock and dismay at their beloved friend's passing, as they had built a solid friendship in the past few years. Sikwane and Goliath described their relationship as the most unlikely of friendships that remained after their Breakfast Show.
Popular praise singer, poet, and activist Jessica Mbangeni also died on Saturday. Mbangeni was known for performing praise through poetry at funerals and presidential inaugurations. Her devotion to her faith permeated her work, relationships, and mission to uplift others, both within the church and beyond. Her deep connection with God gave her the wisdom, compassion, and grace that touched countless lives.
Mbangeni won the Best Traditional Album award for her iGoli Live album at the South African Music Awards in 2017 and made the list of nominees vying for the Traditional Artist of the Year category at the Basadi in Music Awards. She also took on acting in 2013, making her on-screen debut in Zabalaza and a guest appearance on Skeem Saam.
Singer and friend Vusi Nova expressed his shock upon learning of Jessica's brother's death, stating that her relationship grew after they made the song As'phelelanga and that they traveled the world together.
