Tourism fraternity loses a happy soul who touched many lives

‘I can still see your bubbly smile, feel your kiss on my cheek and your warm hug as we parted ways on Thursday afternoon.’

Tsitsana Mokaleng painted the beautiful image of her friend, Phinah Phiri, the prominent businesswoman in J.B. Marks who sadly passed away after her car collided with a truck near Rio Casino in Klerksdorp at 18:45 on Friday night (21 September).

The award-winning Phinah was on her way from the Lilizela tourism awards at the Casino to her three girls in Potchefstroom.

According to the Klerksdorp police spokesperson, Sgt Amogelang Mabihi, the police are investigating a case of culpable homicide. ‘The 43-year-old woman who was travelling alone died at the scene. The truck driver who was also alone in the truck suffered minor injuries and was transported to Tshepong Hospital,’ said Mabihi.

Tsitsana says her heart is heavy from all the crying. ‘I can only imagine how your girls are feeling at this moment. I will forever treasure your teachings. The tourism industry has lost a legend. The world has lost a true friend and heaven has gained a beautiful angel in you. Rest in eternal peace, my beautiful sister,’ she said.

Thabo Mosiane, a close family friend says Phinah was an NWU graduate and an entrepreneur of note. She owned a travel agency, a guest house and a mobile spa and was the chairperson of the NW Women in Tourism.

‘She was a humble human being, a true, dependable friend and a free-spirited woman. She was an academic who never spoke of her academic achievements. She believed in the power of knowledge and put her three daughters in the best schools. [She was] a loving mother who protected her children by any means necessary. She was true to the end – a go-getter – a happy soul who touched many lives and inspired many young women,’ he said.

Phinah’s funeral service will take place at the Ikageng stadium from 07:00 on Saturday.