Community rallies after crash claims mothers

Tragedy hit Zara’s Cafe in Ballito’s Lifestyle Centre last week when four well-known and well-loved waitresses were involved in a serious motor vehicle collision at 1am on Sunday, May 31.

Jabulile ‘Jane’ Sithole and Thandeka Mthembu were pronounced dead at the scene, while Rosena Sithole (Jabulile’s sister) is in a critical condition at Stanger Hospital. Bongiwe Mvelo’s injuries remain significant, but she has been released from Iluthulo Hospital as an outpatient, where she is still receiving treatment.

All four women are mothers and were the primary breadwinners for their children. Jabulile Sithole and Mthembu left behind five and three children, respectively, while Rosena Sithole is a mother of three and Mvelo to two.

Owner of Zara’s Cafe Maro Zaroudoukas said this was a great tragedy and that her thoughts are with their families at this time.

Speaking about the deaths of Jabulile Sithole and Mthembu, Zaroudoukas said their loss is deeply felt at Zara’s by all members of staff.

“They were respectful, happy, beautiful people,” said Zaroudoukas.

Head boy of Ashton International College, Alwyn Small, who works as a casual at the cafe, brought the horrific news to the school and donations from the public have since been pouring in.

“There has been huge financial and material support from the public for the families of these women, with customers and employers donating food, clothing and money for their families,” said Zaroudoukas, who was overwhelmed by the generosity.