South African icon Basetsana Kumalo recently took to social media to celebrate a special milestone—her son’s 13th birthday. The television personality, businesswoman, and former Miss South Africa poured her heart out in a touching tribute that showcased the deep love and pride she has for her son, Kgositsile.
Basetsana shared adorable pictures of her son, from his early days as a baby to the young teenager he is now. Her message was not just a birthday wish, but a reflection of motherhood, growth, and the unbreakable bond she shares with him.
“Kgositsile, on this day 13 years ago, our family was blessed with a beautiful gift, the gift of your life my son,” she began. “You came at 34 weeks and I knew that a brave heart was born. You were determined to fight and live. Your names are a full representation and embodiment of who you are—uShaka Kgositsile Emmanuel.”
She continued by expressing how joyful it has been to watch him grow over the years. “Watching you grow has been the joy of my life. Your bravery and resilience for life is a marvel to witness. Your quirkiness and wit is delightful, you are kind and considerate, you are generous with your love and affection, you have a presence and greatness imbued. You are smart and methodical and your sense of humor is top tier.”
As he enters his teenage years, Basetsana offered words of wisdom and encouragement that many parents would relate to. “My prayer for you Mntanam’ is that you grow to walk in your destiny, may your steps be ordered of the Lord, may you always know that you are the head and not the tail, you are above and not beneath, you are blessed going in and coming out.”
She also reminded him of important life lessons: “As you come into your teens, remember this—you are enough, you don’t have to have everything figured out—stay curious, comparison steals joy, your voice matters, you are allowed to say ‘no’ to things that make you feel uncomfortable, you will have good days and rough days—both are normal, your feelings are valid, you are more than your mistakes. May goodness and mercy follow you all the days of your life.”
Closing her heartfelt message, she wrote, “Happy birthday King! Mbulaz’omnyama! Your tribe loves you very much.”
