Family and friends have described the late Umhlobo Wenene FM religious programmes presenter Nomonde Vakalisa as a person with humility and faith.

Hundreds of people including her family, friends, colleagues and the public gathered at Nangoza Jebe Hall in New Brighton for the memorial service of Vakalisa.

The veteran television and radio show host passed away in hospital last week.

It was an emotional afternoon, as those close to Nomonde Vakalisa came to say their goodbyes to the beloved radio and television presenter.

Speakers describe “SMonds” as she was affectionally known as someone always willing to lend a hand and encourage them.

The 47-year-old, who started at UMhlobo Wenene FM in 2008, played a pivotal part in growing the listenership of the station.

Fellow Pastor, Lingelihle Jadezweni, says despite her longtime illness, Vakalisa kept her faith until the end of her life.

“Ubom bakhe (her life) has been a gift and a blessing to many people. Many homes have benefited from this great gift. As a family, they raised (a child) but little did they know that they were raising a giant who would end up impacting the nation and even how she has been strong right until the end of (her) life, strong with her illness. May the family take courage in that. May the lord be with you as a family, may the lord be with all those who loved her.”

Vakalisa’s colleague at Umhlobo Wenene FM, Lucky, “Luckeez” Matyolweni says she was a strong and resilient woman.

“Nomonde was a true believer, she would be going through something, and we would find out months later. She is one of those people who persevere. She is evidence that we really have to go through things in life and it’s just part of seasons of life. It’s a sad day today to lose a broadcaster of Nomonde’s calibre.”

VIDEO | Vakali has been described as inspirational. 

Community and church member Lindelwa Melithafa says Vakalisa’s programmes greatly impacted her life.

“I thank God that he gave me this opportunity to come and say goodbye to Pastor Nomonde Vakalisa. I wouldn’t be comfortable in my spirit if I did not get this opportunity because my presence here says a lot about what I’ve learnt- as young as she was, I have learnt a lot (from her).”

Vakalisa will be laid to rest on Friday in her hometown of Mount Ayliff in the Eastern Cape.