VANDERBIJLPARK – It was a sombre moment at North-West University’s (NWU) Khumba Hall as hundreds gathered to pay tribute to the fallen students.
Vilano Saunders and Mojalefa Nthebe died last week in different incidents, plunging NWU into grief.
Saunders died after breaking his neck in a rugby game, while Nthebe’s lifeless body was found floating in the university’s dam.
On May 7, family, friends, and fellow NWU students gathered during a moving memorial service.
Different tributes were rendered at the memorial, with friends and close ones sharing their heartfelt condolences and speeches.
Later during the services, video memorabilia were showcased, leaving dozens in tears.
During the memorial, Student Representative Council President Kamohelo Zwane said students must look out for each other.
“We have to be kind to one another and make sure we take care of each other.
When we realise one of our own is not in a good state, we need to take care of them,” he said.
“We have lost our champions, leaders, and dedicated sportspeople. It is necessary that during this time, we hold each other’s hands and mourn together. The loss of both students has left many broken,” he said.
Speaking more on Vilano, NWU rugby representative Mofokeng said the player, known as ‘Sexy Legs’, had a welcoming aura.
“Vilano was what we call 50 shades whiter. He was a black man inside. Sexy Legs carried himself with Ubuntu,” he said.
Mofokeng continued to share how Vilano was a dedicated sportsman.
“He had a dashing smile with his sexy legs. We will forever remember him,” he said.
Given the opportunity to share their tributes, the Nthebe family representative said that when they learned of the news, they had many questions.
“We came with many unanswered questions when we learnt of ‘Jeffry’s’ death, however, questions have been answered. Jeffry was very outspoken and always took his chances with what he loved,” she said.
“We have no words on his passing, however, everything good and bad comes from the Lord. Jeff was our gift and light, and now our light went off,” said the representative.
