Northern Academy mourns loss of Gr 11 learner
Northern Academy held a heartfelt memorial for Sekwele Phokobye, remembered for his humour, kindness, and resilient spirit.
POLOKWANE – “He may not be with us, but his memory lives in every funny moment.”
These were the sentiments of one of Sekwele Phokobye’s friends during his memorial service, held at Northern Academy on Friday.
Phokobye passed away just shy of returning to school after the long winter school holiday, and was laid to rest on July 19. The school organised a memorial service in his honour, where his parents were also present to witness how many lives their son had touched.
The Gr 11 learner was described as humble, humorous and sociable. He was the friend who could liven any moment and was always there to check up on his friends and make sure they were okay.
In a moving tribute by his friend, Mosusumedi Sebata, the banter that existed between the two was evident. Sebata said he would remember his friend for “his famous dance moves that should never be shown in public and the unfunny jokes that could get anybody in fits of laughter”.
He added that although his friend lit up every room he walked into, he also showed resilience in tough times. “He showed us how to keep going when times are tough, he tried to keep going,” he said.
A visibly emotional Tshiriletso Thompson, another friend of Phokobye, said he misses his friend and is struggling to come to terms with the loss. “He was a genuine person, a good friend. It’s sad that we are here to mourn, he was young. I wish he had more time, things are not the same without him,” he said.
His former register and geography teacher, Siphiwe Ndlovu, also had beautiful things to say about him. She praised him for being a humble and respectful learner and added that she was in disbelief that she would never again see him step into her class. His empty chair is a constant reminder of the tragedy of his loss.
She reminded the learners of how special each and every one of them is and that they should never doubt that, even when things are not going right. “It has made me realise that each and every learner is special. Learners, you are loved, you are special. Even when we reprimand you, it’s because we care,” she said.
Tongesai Dembo, a teacher at the school, offered words of comfort to the Phokobye family. “Even when we don’t understand, God understands. Circumstances change, people change, but God remains the same. While in moments of sorrow, remember the name of God and He will provide a strong tower,” he said.
