Quick Facts
| Full Name | Thabiso Phophi Silence Sikwane |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 30, 1974 |
| Place of Birth | Sibasa, former Transvaal Province, South Africa |
| Date of Death | August 30, 2024 |
| Age at Death | 50 years |
| Education | – Bachelor’s in English and Sociology, University of Witwatersrand – Master’s Degree (details not specified) |
| Books Authored | Modimo O A Go Rata (God Loves You) (2020) |
| Career Highlights | – Award-winning radio broadcaster and talk show host – Worked at Voice of Soweto, YFM, Kaya FM, Power FM, SAFM – Co-hosted Kaya FM breakfast show (2019-2021) |
| Other Roles | – Ambassador for Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital – Founder of a swimming academy |
| Personal Life | – Married to Thato Sikwane (DJ Fresh) from September 11, 2002, until their amicable divorce in 2022 – Three children: two sons (born 2003, 2008) and a daughter (born 2014) |
| Notable Achievements | – First female and youngest spokesperson of a Premier in South Africa – Established a successful swimming academy – Released a children’s book promoting love and self-worth |
| Cause of Death | Undisclosed |
Early Life and Education
Thabiso Sikwane was born on January 30, 1974, in Sibasa, located in the former Transvaal Province of South Africa. Growing up in a family where her mother worked in the taxi industry and her father owned a general dealer’s store, Thabiso developed a strong work ethic and a deep sense of community from an early age. She completed her secondary education at Mbilwi Secondary School in Sibasa, one of the region’s top-performing public schools.
During her teenage years, amidst the late apartheid era and the subsequent transition to democracy, Thabiso was actively involved in youth activism. She participated in organizations such as the South African Youth Congress (SAYCO) and the Congress of South African Students (COSAS). Notably, at the age of 14, she engaged with Nelson Mandela during the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA), advocating for lowering the voting age to 16.
Thabiso pursued higher education at the University of Witwatersrand, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English and Sociology. She furthered her studies by obtaining two Honours degrees in Development Studies and Labour Relations in 1999. In 2008, she expanded her academic credentials by earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Bradford in the United Kingdom.
Career in Broadcasting
Thabiso Sikwane’s career in broadcasting began after completing her studies. She started as a junior lecturer at the University of South Africa (UNISA) before transitioning into the public service as the spokesperson for the Premier of Limpopo, Ngoako Ramatlhodi. Her passion for media led her to work with various radio stations, including Voice of Soweto, YFM, Kaya FM, Power FM, and SAFM.
In 2019, Thabiso returned to Kaya FM after a seven-year hiatus from the station. She co-hosted the popular breakfast show alongside Jason Goliath and David O’Sullivan, a role she held until April 2021. Her engaging storytelling and relatable on-air presence earned her numerous awards and a loyal listener base, establishing her as one of South Africa’s most beloved radio personalities.
Authorial Pursuits
In December 2020, Thabiso ventured into children’s literature with the release of her book, Modimo O A Go Rata (“God Loves You”). The book serves as a heartfelt reminder to children that they are loved, blending her storytelling prowess with her commitment to nurturing young minds.
Business and Philanthropic Endeavors
Beyond broadcasting and writing, Thabiso was a dedicated entrepreneur and philanthropist. She founded a swimming academy, leveraging her experience as a swimming teacher to promote health and fitness among the youth. Her business interests spanned various sectors, including transport, consumer goods, and agriculture, earning her the reputation of a “serial entrepreneur.”
Thabiso also served as an ambassador for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, advocating for children’s health and welfare. Her multifaceted career reflected her diverse talents and unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in her community.
Personal Life
Thabiso met Thato Sikwane, popularly known as DJ Fresh, in 1996 at YFM, where she worked as a newsreader and he was a DJ. The couple married on September 11, 2002, and together they built a family with three children: two sons born in 2003 and 2008, and a daughter born in 2014. Thato had a daughter from a previous relationship, making Thabiso a stepmother as well.
Despite facing challenges, including public allegations against DJ Fresh, Thabiso strived to maintain her marriage. However, on February 7, 2022, the couple announced their amicable divorce after being separated since the start of the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020.
Passing and Legacy
Tragically, Thabiso Sikwane passed away on August 30, 2024, at the age of 50. Her family announced her passing, highlighting her passion and dedication to Christ, family life, and the media and entertainment industry. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Thabiso’s legacy lives on through her contributions to broadcasting, literature, and her philanthropic efforts. She is remembered as a trailblazer who inspired many through her work and her unwavering commitment to her community.