This morning, I woke up with an overwhelming sense of gratitude after having the most profound dream. I dreamt about Bhuti Xolani Gwala. It felt so vivid, so real, as though I had been blessed with the opportunity to sit in his presence, even for a brief moment.
In the dream, we were seated together, sharing an unspoken connection. Then someone walked in—a figure I cannot fully recall but whose presence felt meaningful and significant. This person approached Bhuti Xolani and called him by his clan name, Mphephethwa, a name that holds immense cultural significance and respect. That one word lingered in my heart as I woke up.
While I am still awaiting my spiritual leader’s interpretation of the dream, I know this moment was no coincidence. It felt like an honor, a gift, and I cannot help but reflect on what this incredible man meant to me and to the countless others who admired him.
I grew up watching Bhuti Xolani Gwala on Asikhulume—Let’s Talk. Back then, I was young and didn’t always understand the depth of the conversations unfolding on screen. Yet, I sat there with adults, captivated by his voice, his presence, and his ability to guide complex discussions with such clarity and grace.
Even at that young age, I recognized that he was someone special. Later, I came to know him as the IsiZulu newsreader who commanded attention every time he appeared on television. At the time, I thought news was dull, as most children do, but now, as an adult who appreciates the nuances of current affairs, I realize how much Bhuti Xolani shaped my perception of journalism and the importance of being informed.
Xolani Gwala was more than a broadcaster—he was a symbol of excellence, integrity, and humanity. Born in Impendle, KwaZulu-Natal, he rose to become one of South Africa’s most respected journalists, a journey that reflected his resilience and relentless pursuit of truth.
From his early days on SABC to his influential roles on SAfm and 702, he embodied the essence of journalism: holding power to account, giving a voice to the voiceless, and fostering meaningful dialogue on the most pressing issues of our time.
But beyond the microphone, Bhuti Xolani was a man of profound humility and compassion. He had a warmth that made everyone feel seen and heard, whether they were an interviewee, a colleague, or a listener tuning in from the farthest corner of South Africa.
He treated people with respect, regardless of their station in life, and always sought to understand rather than judge. That humanity shone through in everything he did, making him not just a journalist but a trusted confidant for the nation.
Even when faced with his battle against colon cancer in 2017, Xolani Gwala approached it with courage and grace. He didn’t shy away from sharing his journey with the public, using his platform to raise awareness and inspire others. His strength during those challenging years resonated deeply with South Africans.
We prayed for his recovery, and when he passed away in 2019 at the age of 44, the grief was profound. It felt as though we had lost a family member—a brother, a father, a mentor. His death left a void in the hearts of many, but his life left a legacy that will endure for generations.
Waking up from that dream this morning felt like a sacred moment. I never knew Bhuti Xolani personally, yet his presence in the dream made me feel deeply connected to his spirit and his legacy. I am overwhelmed by the privilege of having shared even a fleeting moment with him in my dream. It felt like a reminder of how much he gave to this country and how deeply he impacted my own life, even from afar.
What struck me most about Bhuti Xolani was his unwavering integrity. He was never afraid to ask the tough questions, to challenge the status quo, or to advocate for what was right. He carried himself with dignity, a trait that made him not just a great journalist but a great human being.
His voice was more than just a tool of his trade; it was a beacon of truth, reason, and hope in a world often clouded by chaos and misinformation.
I am so grateful to have had this dream. It feels like a gift, a moment of reflection, and an opportunity to celebrate a life well lived.
Bhuti Xolani, Mphephethwa, you may no longer walk among us, but your legacy continues to inspire. You taught us the power of storytelling, the importance of asking the right questions, and the value of living with purpose and humanity.
To his family, friends, and colleagues, thank you for sharing him with us. To Bhuti Xolani himself, thank you for your light, your wisdom, and your unwavering commitment to the truth. Your life was a gift to this nation, and your memory will forever be a blessing.
Rest in power, Mphephethwa. It was an honor to dream of you, and it is an honor to carry your legacy in my heart.
