It’s never easy to put pen to paper when writing about someone so dear to your heart, someone whose essence has shaped your life and continues to inspire you every day. Today, that someone is my mother—the woman who gave birth to me, raised me, and continues to be the cornerstone of my world.
Just last night, Ntate Khanare reminded me of the blessing my mother is, saying, "I need to visit your mother and thank her for giving birth to a Naledi (a star) that saved my life." Those words echoed in my heart because they perfectly captured what my mother, Rosemary Nokwanda Khobeni (Nosandiso), means to not only me but to everyone privileged enough to know her.
She is a star—shining bright in the lives of all she touches, bringing warmth, guidance, and light wherever she goes. My mother is also very supportive towards our dreams and goals in life. She is always encouraging us to remain true to ourselves no matter what. She always encourages us to be ourselves because that is the best we can be and she is right. Enkosi Mama.
My mother is an extraordinary and resilient woman. She raised my brother and me as a single mother—and when I say single, I mean very single. She shouldered the challenges of life with grace and determination, even when I, as a mischievous teenager, added my fair share of stress to her life. Back then, I didn’t fully understand the weight of her sacrifices.
But now, as an adult, I look back with awe and gratitude, realizing the strength it took to be the unwavering force she was—and still is.
Our home in the village is affectionately known as "Small Street." Why? Because it is always bustling with visitors—family, friends, neighbors—everyone comes to our home. My mother’s warmth and nurturing spirit made it a place of comfort and connection. She loves people, and people love her back. In fact, I’ve often joked that she needs a schedule to manage the constant flow of visitors!
Her journey is a testament to resilience. From working as a domestic worker to becoming a professional hairstylist, she showed us that determination and hard work can transform one’s circumstances. My brother and I often marvel at her kindness, her grace, her strength, and her unwavering faith in God.
Eight years ago, my mother married my father, and he gave her a name that perfectly embodies her essence—Nosandiso. It’s a name that reflects the joy, dignity, and love she brought to him and his family as their Makoti (bride). Coming from the AmaNxasana clan, she is lovingly referred to as Manxasana, carrying her lineage with pride and honor.
Mama, you are an inspiration to us. Your belief in God and the way you honor our ancestors are lessons you’ve passed down to us, and they are the very foundation of who we are today. I see your influence in my daughter—the kindness, the love for others, and the no-nonsense attitude you instilled in her. You’ve made her strong, just as you’ve made us strong.
On your birthday, I want to thank you for being the incredible woman you are. You brought so much joy to Papa when he was still with us. He was a proud husband, always saying that you brought dignity and honor to his family. And he was right. Wherever he is, I know he is smiling down ku Nosandiso wakhe, proud as ever.
Mama, Mkhiwa, Dunjana, Skhonza’nankomo, you are loved beyond words. Thank you for being our guiding light, our strength, and our heart.
May the good Lord and our ancestors bless you abundantly.
You are truly the girl you think you are—and so much more.
Happy birthday, Mama
