Yesterday it was supposed to be her 50th Celebration and the Theme was African Bright. The Birthday Celebration was going to start at 12h30 for 13h00. Everything was planned and God decided to take her yesterday at 06h30 in the morning due to suspected Cardiac Arrest. She passed on 6 hours before her 50th Birthday Celebration. This is one of the painful moments that the Sikwane and Matladi Families will never forget. Sometimes we plan things and God decides for us. Rest well Thabiso Sikwane the Veteran Media Personality who spent more than 25 years in the industry. You have finished your race Sisi. You will forever be remembered for your contribution in the media industry. A Big Tree in the Media Industry has fallen. (3 July 1974-31 It’s a bittersweet thing when someone you admire leaves us, especially just before a milestone celebration. Thabiso Sikwane, the beloved radio personality, lost her life just hours before what was to be a joyous 50th birthday celebration. She had turned 50 on July 3 but chose August 31 to celebrate with friends and family — a date that now holds a profound weight for those who loved her, according to SowetanLIVE
Thabiso Sikwane died hours before her 50th birthday
Thabiso Sikwane died hours before her 50th birthday
Thabiso’s voice was a staple across various South African radio stations, including Voice of Soweto, SAFM, PowerFM, and Kaya FM. If you’re someone who’s tuned in to these channels, then you’ve likely felt the warmth and charisma she brought to the airwaves. She was known not only for her impeccable broadcasting skills but also for her kindness and compassion. Thabiso was married to the equally esteemed radio presenter Thato “DJ Fresh” Sikwane for twenty years, and together they raised three wonderful children.
Family spokesperson Thami Ngubeni spoke to SMag, revealing that Thabiso was on a missionary trip when she fell ill suddenly on August 28. It’s disheartening to think that someone full of life and love for others would experience such a tragic turn. She was admitted to the hospital, and just two days later, she transitioned peacefully, leaving a void that will be hard to fill.
Her co-hosts from Kaya FM’s Breakfast Show, comedian Jason Goliath and David O’Sullivan, expressed their shock and disbelief at her passing. Goliath recalled Thabiso’s incredible ability to uplift the people around her, sharing, “I’ve never seen a person who has presence and gentleness with a pure heart. She’d pour into you as much as she can.” It’s a testament to her character that even in their sorrow, her friends remember not just the laughter they shared but the genuine goodness she brought into their lives.
O’Sullivan described their relationship as an unlikely friendship, one that birthed from the challenging times they faced together, particularly during the pandemic. He noted how their connection deepened beyond the airwaves, saying, “It seemed like the natural end but it was just the end of the show and not our friendship.” This speaks volumes about the bonds forged in the unpredictable world of broadcasting.