Professor, son, brother and friend... taken too soon

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out on behalf of my dear friend, Phumza, a loving mother who is now facing every parent’s worst nightmare — the sudden and tragic loss of her only son, Professor.

On Saturday 5th April 2025, Professor, just 22 years old, was caught in crossfire while walking home in Cape Town, South Africa. His life was taken in an instant, leaving behind a devastated mother and two younger sisters whose world has changed forever.

Phumza’s heartfelt wish is to return Professor to the family’s ancestral home in the Transkei, a place of deep cultural and spiritual significance, to lay him to rest with honour, dignity, and love. The journey from Cape Town to Transkei spans more than 1,000 kilometres, and comes with considerable costs — from transport and burial arrangements, to taking time off work to grieve and travel with her daughters.

These expenses are simply beyond what Phumza can manage alone. At a time of profound grief, no family should have to carry such a heavy financial burden as well.

We are coming together to raise $10,000 AUD to help cover:

• Transport of Professor’s body to Transkei

• Funeral and cultural burial costs

• Travel, accommodation, and basic expenses for Phumza and her daughters

• Loss of income while taking compassionate leave from work

Phumza has given everything to raise her children with love, strength, and values that will live on through those who knew Professor. Now, we’re rallying around her to ensure her son is laid to rest in the way he deserves — surrounded by family, country, and tradition.

Any contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference.

If you’re not in a position to donate, please consider sharing this post with your community — every share brings us closer to easing the burden on this grieving family.

With deep gratitude,

Kathryn