THROUGHOUT the month of June, Daily Sun has proudly shared the remarkable, heartfelt, and inspiring stories of our Top 10 Gogo and Mkhulu finalists.
The elderly from all corners of Mzansi, from the dusty villages of Limpopo to the bustling kasis of Soweto in Gauteng, the SunTeam visited these legends after they were nominated by SunReaders for our Gogo and Mkhulu of the Year Competition.
Each finalist has lived a life full of wisdom, resilience, and strength, and their stories have captured the hearts of the nation.
What's Next?
VOTE FOR THE GOGO/MKHULU WINNER
SunLanders, we need your help to crown our favourite gogo and mkhulu for 2025.
We have 10 great finalists whose stories we've been enjoying in the past month and whose experiences and anecdotes have highly enriched us about the secrets to live long and happy.
On Friday, 27 June, you can start voting for your favourite gogo and mkhulu, who each stand a chance to win a share of R5 000 and Daily Sun gift bags.
Simply vote for your favourite finalist by mentioning their name and surname in our WhatsApp line on 062 722 7947.
The closing date for voting is Friday, 4 July at 12 noon.
Your votes will be taken into consideration when a panel of judges decide on the final two winners.
Here are the finalists:
• Beauty Khumalo-Mgidi (101), Katlehong, Ekurhuleni
Gogo Beauty credits her dad's tough love for shaping her into the woman she is today.
"Our father was strict and taught us strong moral values, which we've carried with us throughout life. His discipline made us fear doing anything wrong," she said.
• LightWell Mwase (105), Bapong, North West
For mkhulu LightWell, faith is the secret to long life.
"I believe I'm still alive today because of my faith. I've always trusted God and prayed through everything," he shared.
• Grace Zwane (96), Durban, KZN
A retired Lieutenant-Colonel in The Salvation Army Church, gogo Grace still remembers Bible verses by heart.
"My eyesight isn't what it used to be, but I memorised many verses. By God's grace, I'm still alive," she said.
•Klaas Msiza (96), Soshanguve, North of Tshwane
Mkhulu Klaas has strong advice for the younger generation.
"Respect women. Pay lobola and forget about vat en sit. Treat your wives properly," he said.
• Ketjane Diphofa (105), Mphanama Village, Limpopo
Gogo Ketjane once dreamt of having more kids.
"I had seven children but wanted more. Sadly, my husband passed away early. Back then, remarrying wasn't common, and I chose to raise my kids alone."
• Sasabona Mageza (95), Elim, Limpopo
Gogo Sasabona learnt to love the news, thanks to her husband.
"He read The Star every day and encouraged me to start reading too. That's when I began buying the paper to stay informed," she said.
• Ngaka Stephen Nale (90), Sharpeville, Vaal
This cheerful mkhulu still enjoys a cold beer while watching football.
"To live long, you must respect others. I also enjoy reading and staying updated with the news," he said.
• Mazulu Nkanyane (92), Winburg, Free State
Gogo Mazulu takes pride in being a teacher, even at home.
"I taught my children to be home by 6pm and to wait until marriage before starting a family," she said.
• Elsie Mahlakwane (90), Burgersfort, Limpopo
Gogo Elsie believes in natural healing.
"I've always trusted herbs and the church. I still do things for myself and don't rely on pills," she said.
• Letuki Melupe (91), Lejwaneng Village, Free State
Gogo Letuki is a true agricultural hero.
"I've never relied on shops for veggies. My hands have always fed me. Gardening brings me joy," she said.
These incredible stories have left Mzansi in awe. Reaching the age of 90 and beyond is a true inspiration and these gogos and mkhulus are living proof that age is just a number when you're armed with wisdom, strength, and heart.
Daily Sun deputy editor Doreen Molefe said her heartfelt congratulations: "A massive congratulations to the 10 incredible gogos and mkhulus who've reached the finals of our competition, featured in the Daily Sun! Your stories of resilience, grace, and inspiration have deeply moved us. You are true legends.
"Now, we eagerly look forward to selecting two winners next month (July) and celebrating their well-deserved moment in the spotlight. Thank you for sharing your extraordinary journeys with us. Stay tuned!"
