A Heartfelt Goodbye: Mourning the loss of Mtobisi Teleni

Losing a young person is one of the most difficult experiences any community can endure. There are no easy words to make sense of such a tragedy. It shakes us to our core — because a life has ended far too soon, along with all the untold stories, dreams and possibilities that vanished with it. On the 8th of May, our school assembly paid homage to the amazing soul of Mtobisi Teleni. Our school is more than just classrooms and corridors. It is a living, breathing family. Every learner, every educator, every parent and caretaker forms part of a close-knit community that celebrates together in times of joy and stands together in moments of pain. On this day, we stood together, grieving the loss of one of our own - reminded of just how precious and fragile life is.

Youth is meant to be a time of laughter, of bold hopes and wide-eyed wonder. When that is taken away, the loss isn’t just personal — it echoes through the hearts of friends, classmates, teachers and families. We mourn the absence and the potential; the birthdays that will never be celebrated, the exams never written and the friendships that won’t grow any further.

Grieving at school is especially difficult. Some learners may not yet know how to put their pain into words. Others may carry it quietly, unsure of how to ask for comfort. That is why we urge each and every member of our school family to be kind to one another, to listen, and to speak up if you are struggling. No one should carry grief alone.

We also acknowledge the dedicated educators and staff who, even as they hold back their own tears, continue to support our scholars through this loss. Their strength and compassion do not go unnoticed.

As we remember the life of our dear learner, let us carry forward their memory in how we treat each other — with kindness, with understanding, and with a commitment to live fully in honour of those who no longer can. To the family, we extend our deepest condolences. Your child was a shining light in our school, and his absence is felt in every corner of our hearts. May you find peace and strength in the love that surrounds you.