Zinzile MavusoIn the early parts of Sunday morning our comrade, friend and mentor, Thapelo Peege was found shot dead near his home in Migson Manor/Finetown.
Thapelo became an integral part of the youth club in Finetown. He mobilized and worked extensively to get more young people involved in our programs. He was always ready to serve and contribute to developing the community. Aside from the role he played with the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation Youth, brother Thapelo was also active in the branches of the MDM structures and other community groups.
Love, care and compassion are some of the fundamental qualities used to describe this hardworking community worker. He was a humble and committed man who believed in the power of youth and the need for transforming our communities to be safe spaces of hope and development. Just a few months ago it was Thapelo who organised extensively to support the elderly in the area with food and support packs under the national lockdown.
His departure from this world is a huge loss to us. It has left us weaker and in pain. In his last engagement with our Youth Program team, just a week ago, Thapelo spoke passionately about his ideas and plans to open up a youth centre and advice office between Finetown and Migson Manor. The centre would serve as a safe space for skills and community development.
Our deepest sympathies and condolences go to his family, friends and the entire community. Thapelo was a brave and dedicated human being who represented the best of qualities that we hope many others will learn from. Whilst investigations are still on going, we hope that justice can be found so that he may rest peacefully, and for all of us to find healing.
Hamba Kahle Nkokheli. We will always remember you.
Ahmed Kathrada Foundation Youth
