16 JANUARY 2024
It is with a sad and heavy heart that the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP) announces the passing of a dear colleague, friend and veteran publisher, Octavia Elsie Hlungwani (Ngondo). She was the publisher of Phofula Golden Highway Voice.
Octavia passed away on Wednesday, the 10th of January 2024 at her home in Ennerdale, Johannesburg after a short illness.
We will remember her for being a fearless community print media activist, a dedicated publisher and tireless AIP board member, representing Gauteng.
Mbali Dhlomo, Chairperson of AIP stated, “The passing of Sisi Octavia came as a huge shock to most of us. It really caught us off-guard. In her duties as an AIP board member, Sisi Octavia was in the forefront in our quest for sustainability of the community print media sector. She always went the extra mile and, in most instances, went well beyond expectations. No task was too big or too hard for her. So, as we deal with this sad loss and mourn her passing, let us also celebrate her life and her achievements because she was one of a kind.”
Kate Skinner, Executive Director of the AIP, said, “Sisi Octavia was a larger-than-life person. She was a whirlwind of energy and purpose. She was someone who could get things done. She spoke her mind, but this was coupled with a deep warmth and kindness”.
Reggy Moalusi, SANEF Executive Director described Octavia’s passing as “a huge loss” to the media fraternity. “She played a key role across community media in Gauteng. Her contribution, and sharp mind, will be sorely missed,” he said.
Latiefa Mobara, Executive Director of the Press Council, said, “It is with great sadness that the Press Council of SA notes the sudden passing of Sisi Octavia Elsie Hlungwani (Ngondo).
As a publisher and member of the AIP, Sisi Octavia will be remembered for her enormous contribution to the creation and development of diverse voices in the publishing industry. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and colleagues”.
Gail Schimmel, CEO of the Advertising Regulatory Board, added, “Octavia’s enthusiastic contribution to the work of the Advertising Regulatory Board as a board member will be missed. She was one of the newer members of our Board and had already made her mark as an involved and thoughtful contributor to our industry.”
Sisi Octavia is survived by her husband, Magezi Mackson Hlungwani, her daughter, Nompumelelo Mkhonza, her son, Nyandayeyo Hlungwani, and her three grandchildren.
Memorial details:
Date: Wednesday 17 January 2024
Time: 12pm
Venue: Caxton Offices, 14 Wright Street, Industria West
Funeral details to be confirmed:
Date: Saturday 20 January 2024 in Ennerdale.
For more information please contact:
Mbali Dhlomo – AIP Chairperson – 083 466 0027
Kate Skinner – AIP Executive Director – 082 926 6404
Dunisani Ntsanwisi – AIP Provincial Chairperson for Limpopo and Sanef’s Community Media Chairperson – 073 981 8649