Johannesburg - It was an emotionally charged memorial service as family, friends and those who worked closely with television and radio host Pearl Shongwe gathered at SABC studios to remember her for her good heart.
Shongwe, 35, passed away in her sleep last week in her Joburg home.
Pearl’s sister Nonhlanhla Shongwe spoke about the radio host, describing the profundity of their relationship and further detailing that there was a lot that she could write and say about Pearl.
“If someone had told me that I would be standing here today speaking of Pearl, I would have said no it’s all lies. Trying to prepare. I need you to understand that there’s a lot that I could write about her. She was like a twin. I mothered her from the day she was born and I would like to believe that on her last day on earth she knew that mom, that’s what she called me has got my back,” said Nonhlanhla.
She added that Pearl was courageous and that had an impact on her in immense ways.
“She used to say, mama you have such a great skill of writing, you are a great writer. It’s just a shame that you do not believe so,” said Nonhlanhla.
Her aunt, Zinhle Shongwe, also spoke fondly about the radio host, sharing how good she was and her influence that lit up everyone close to her.
“Futhi was and will always be our pride no matter how hard life gets. Her respect, her smile, laugh and care were what mattered to us. She did not only have a beautiful face, but a beautiful heart. She always lighted up the lives of others not only us as family, but also her friends, neighbours, colleagues and the community at large,” she said.
Popular radio host DJ Sabby took to social media to speak about how driven Shongwe was. “Rest easy sis Pearl Shongwe. You were always a positive person and such a career-driven individual. It was an honour working with you and knowing you. Condolences to your family, friends and colleagues,” he shared on Twitter
The 35-year-old worked as a sports reporter and voice-over at SABC Sport including a show called, Sports Buzz.
Her agent, Owen S Management, described Shongwe as a force to be reckoned with in her biography: “Through hard work and determination, she found herself presenting on the SABC 24hr News channel as a sports host on Sports Live. Her versatility has since seen her move into the news and current affairs arena – where she now co-hosts SABC’s longest running show ‘Morning Live’ on weekends alongside Simphiwe Ncongwane.”
The Star