His untimely death came as a shock to many. Chef Lentswe Bhengu-Mafoko was as healthy as they come, and everyone was in disbelief when his family announced his passing. His family said in a statement last week that he died on the night of 28th of February at Sandton Medi-Clinic after a short illness.?

A LIFE WELL-LIVED?

It is a warm but cloudy Monday afternoon in Johannesburg when mourners walked into the Every Nation Church in Rosebank to honour the late, vibrant and full-of-life chef whose contagious smile captured many hearts. Lentswe's family takes the front-row seats and friends pile up from behind. Not a dry tear in site, as family, friends, and colleagues share memories. Programme Director Rorisang Thandekiso reminds the mourners that despite the pain, they need to celebrate Lentswe's life. "A day like this will come for all of us as well, not to instill fear, stress, or anxiety on when that day will come. But to remind us to live the best life that we can live, while we still can.' Opening for the speakers, gospel singer Hle led guests in song.?

LOVE FIRST, LOVE ALWAYS?

Singer and songwriter Langa Mavuso goes down memory lane and reflects on how he met the love of his life. "Swankie had spoken about her big brother to me for many years. She always looked up to her big brother who travelled the continent telling stories through food, sharing his stories with every meal,' he says. "Family and adventure were always at the centre of his life. If it wasn't an impromptu family braai in Randburg, he was planning our next trip to someplace that I didn't want to go to. But once we'd get there, it would be amazing.' Langa says in the seven years that he spent with Lentswe, they shared love, fought a lot, had long embraces, and made a life of their own. "Regardless of the strain, we always knew we loved each other, and it was aptly said in every text, which ended with the words 'Love first, Love always.' But today, I must find new ways to embody that love and find a new place to share my heart." Before closing off with his song Mvula, Langa says, Lentswe was the embodiment of joy. "He is the smile that captured us all. And his laughter filled every room. I don't know how to begin to say goodbye when there is still so much love to give.'