In Remembrance of a Life Lost Too Soon

In most of our stories we try to show you the positive, uplifting side of encompassKids, and oftentimes it is easy! There is so much good coming of our work in South Africa, so many lives being changed for the better, so many young people living holy, healthy lives. But the reality of South Africa is one of hardship and, sometimes, death. We want to take this space this month to remember Keamogetswe Seleka, who at 13 years old passed away just a few short weeks ago at Orlando High School, one of Courage Youth's schools.

Keamogetswe (left) and her mother at the encompassKids event

Keamogetswe was in Grade 8 at Orlando High School, the first born of her family with 3 younger siblings. She was raised by both her mother and her father, who stayed together as a family - often not the case in South Africa. Keamogetswe joined the Courage Youth Movement in 2024, the same year she began at Orlando High School. She became a very active member of the movement and was well-known among her peers and the Courage Staff Members. She was a bubbly and open child.

Keamogetswe reads an emotional letter to her mother

On the 20th July 2024, Courage Youth organized an appreciation day for parents, where learners wrote letters of appreciation to parents and read them out loud in front of all who attended. This session was very emotional for parents and learners alike. Keamogetswe wrote a very emotional letter to her mother, who later admitted that she was pleasantly surprised to hear what her daughter had to say to her.  Keamogetswe also supported her best friend, Simphiwe Zwane, who asked for her support in reading out her letter to her absent mom. Keamogetswe stood next to her friend the whole time she was reading out her letter.

Keamogetswe stands by her friend as she reads her letter

Only three days later, on Tuesday the 23rd July 2024, Keamogetswe was taken to the sick room at school in the morning, after she complained about the stomach-ache, and also claiming that she was feeling hot.  She was kept in the sick room for observation, and also whilst the school was waiting for her parents to arrive in order to take her to the doctor. She was said to have been restless, and she turned very pale. She was then rushed to the hospital as soon as her mother arrived, where she was certified dead on arrival. The details of what could have been the problem are not yet known.

Keamogetswe with Courage Youth Life Coach Thobile and friends

Please remember Keamogetswe and her family in your prayers, and all of Orlando High School. We remember Keamogetswe and hope you will do the same.

Pictures of the memorial held for Keamogetswe.