Young Pretorian Dumisani Macala (28) will be remembered for his infectious smile and vibrant spirit after tragically losing his life in an accident on Sunday.

Dumisani, fondly known as Dumi, worked as an editorial assistant at Rekord Newspapers.

According to his girlfriend, Boitshoko Ramokgopa, Dumi celebrated his 28th birthday on Friday.

The accident occurred at around 06:00 on Sunday morning, and Dumi was declared deceased at the scene.

A heartbroken Boitshoko says she found out about his death when the police contacted her later that day.

“Losing him leaves a void that can never truly be filled, but his love, laughter, and light will live on in all of us who had the privilege of knowing him. Dumi was truly an amazing person and will be deeply missed,” she said.

Boitshoko shared that beyond his beautiful spirit, Dumi had a passion for fashion, always effortlessly stylish with an impeccable taste for premium sneakers.

“He carried himself with confidence and grace, always staying true to who he was.”

Dumi grew up in Jagersfontein, Free State, alongside his siblings, Diniwe and Mxolisi. He deeply loved his mother, Nombulelo, and made no secret of it.

His colleagues at Rekord were shocked by the news of his sudden passing.

Former Rekord journalist Sinesipho Schrieber recalled that when she moved from East London to Pretoria in 2020 with little funds, Dumi walked with her to work every day.

“He became my guide in an unfamiliar town. Dumi did this despite not knowing me well and showed me kindness regardless.”

She described Dumi as an empathetic person who even cared for strangers.

“He related to people from different walks of life and showed his kindness openly.

“Dumi believed in living in the present and working towards a better tomorrow. He was an advocate of self-care, kindness, respect, and laughter. Wherever he was present, there was laughter and silly jokes. He has left a footprint of love in the hearts of his family members and friends and will continue to live [on],” Schrieber added.

Former colleague Noxolo Sibiya said Dumi always talked about his love for rugby and, most importantly, his mom.

“Dumi was a free spirit. Hardly ever angry, but if he was, it was never for too long. He loved laughing and enjoyed listening to music – to get his attention, you’d have to wave him down because he always had headsets on.”

Itumeleng Mokoena, a distraught colleague, said: “For me, he was more than just a colleague; he was a kindred spirit, a ray of sunshine that brightened my days and made me laugh when life was tough. We shared memories, inside jokes about his beloved Manchester City, and he was always there to lend a hand or offer support, even in my darkest moments.

“Dumi was what we call a radiant ray of sunshine – always finding humor in every situation, spreading joy and laughter wherever he went. I feel deeply disturbed by his sudden passing, and my heart goes out to his family, who has lost such a beautiful soul.”

Rekord Group Editor Sunette Visser shared that the office now feels quiet without Dumi’s laughter.

“The office feels incredibly quiet without his laughter, which always filled the room with joy. He brought warmth and light wherever he went, and his ability to make others smile, even on the toughest days, was truly remarkable.

“On behalf of the entire team, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew him. Dumi will be missed dearly, not just for his laughter but for the love, kindness, and respect he gave so freely to everyone around him. His memory will continue to inspire us, and his spirit will live on in our hearts.”

Also read: Update: Missing Pretoria woman found safe and unharmed

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