Dear Friends, Colleagues and Partners,

It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of our esteemed colleague and friend, Nkokheli Mankayi, who passed away on 14/08/2024. Nkokheli was an unwavering advocate for the LGBTQI community and a fierce champion in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV). Nkokheli’s dedication to justice, equality, and human rights has left an indelible mark on all of us and in particular, in the marginalised communities he advocated for.

For many years, Nkokheli, worked tirelessly to support and uplift those who are often marginalized and voiceless. Nkokheli was instrumental in advancing LGBTQI rights, providing a safe space for those who needed it most, and bringing attention to the critical issues of GBV. The passion, courage, and commitment were evident in every aspect of their work, and Nkokheli inspired countless others to join the cause.

As we mourn this profound loss, we also celebrate the life of an individual who gave so much to make the world a better place. Nkokheli’s contributions will continue to influence and guide us as we carry forward the work they so passionately believed in.

To honour Nkokheli’s legacy and ensure that their work is remembered, having consented with the family, we will be sharing this news across our network through our digital platforms. We invite you to join us in paying tribute to Nkokheli by sharing memories, stories, and reflections that highlight the incredible impact they had on our communities.

While we remember and honor Nkokheli we also wish to respect the privacy of the family during this difficult time and ask for your patience in this regard. Further communications will be shared in due time.

Memorial Services and Support

Details regarding memorial services and any collective efforts to honour Nkokheli’s memory will be shared in the coming days. We will also provide information on how you can support Nkokheli’s family or contribute to causes that were close to their heart. We understand that this news may be challenging for many of us, particularly those who worked closely with Nkokheli in the LGBTQI and GBV spaces. Please know that we are here to support each other during this time.

Thank you for your understanding and for joining us in remembering and celebrating the life of Nkokheli, whose legacy will continue to inspire and guide our work.

With deepest sympathy,

A! Team