Londolozi has a shared humanity that catches my attention in small moments every single day. We’ve spoken about this a lot this year in reference to our 90th birthday and it was demonstrated again to me so beautifully a few days ago when we witnessed a truly heartfelt gathering.
Freddy Ngobeni, a dedicated tracker to Londolozi for many years sadly lost his father a few days ago. This coincided with the huge loss for the More family, a partner in the Sabi Sands and friends in the industry for many years. Britt More was tragically killed in an accident last Sunday and we all mourn her loss.
To pay our respects, the Londolozi family gathered in the Shangaan Village to pray for all those affected. As is so true of Shangaan culture, the gathering was not one done in a sad, morose way. Instead people cheerily gathered; chatting, singing, dancing, joining in hands and praying together, happy to meet during their lunch break to celebrate what Britt More and Zankewu Ndlovu had meant to the world.
Dave Varty led the ceremony and in the various languages spoken in this area, we remembered those that had passed, paid respect to them and held a moment of silence for the grieving families. While everyone was gathered we also prayed for rain.
Each member of the Londolozi family was encouraged to send out a prayer that the rains would arrive to soak this precious land and it was touching to see and hear every individual praying to their own god, in their chosen language inspired by a shared care for this land and her animals that runs deep through all of us. Despite it only being a drizzle, the heavens did deliver a little life-giving rain later that evening. A little wink to say that our prayers had been heard I’d like to believe.
For me this is what makes Londolozi what is it. It’s made in the small moments. In the holding of hands, the gathering of hearts, a much needed hug and in the desire for communal prosperity. It’s not done for show, it’s done because it’s authentic to who we are and how we wish to live. A beautiful example of Ubuntu. I am because of you.
Heartwarming!
This is just too wonderful….Bless you all
I send my deepest condolences to Freddy and his family, and the More family, for their loss. That’s what makes the Londolozi family so special — that you come together and support each other through the difficult times. I also continue to pray that the rain comes for you there soon.
Hugs and love to all….but especially to Freddy. I have loved him since I first met him in 2010.
The rains will come for sure
Enormous hearts, sharing an amazing love…. such compassion!
Beautiful in every way, what a special place to be.
Oh so beautiful, thank you Amy! Condolences to the families :'(
Beautiful, brings me to tears for the shared love and community at Londolozi