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There will not be another Maria McCloy

Those who loved her remember a woman who gave everything — to her art, to her city, and to every person lucky enough to have her in their corner

Loving memory: Maria McCloy was someone who made
Johannesburg feel possible. Someone who gathered people across
class, art, music, fashion and politics and convinced them that
beauty, style and radical care belonged together.

Maria McCloy made Johannesburg feel possible

Friends, creatives and a city in mourning gathered to celebrate the woman who helped shape how Johannesburg saw itself after 1994.

Maria McCloy died of heart failure in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

Cultural pioneer Maria McCloy dies at 50

Maria McCloy helped define post-apartheid urban culture through fashion, media, music and an uncompromising commitment to South Africa’s creative spirit

Strumming: Pops Mohamed playing the kora. The globally renowned South African musician died on 4
December 2025, just days before his 76th birthday. Photo: Siphiwe Mhlambi

Remembering Pops Mohamed

Tributes pour in for the multi-instrumentalist who blended African traditions with modern sounds

Rest in power: Poet James Matthews, who died last week, is pictured here with his great-grandchildren Sophia
and Luther on his 95th birthday earlier this year. Photo: Jimi Matthews

Farewell James Matthews, and thank you for wrapping us in your words

The poet wrote about racism, oppression, ageing and hope with a trademark humility

Kuli Roberts pictured taking a selfie with Mayihlome Tshwete. (Gallo Images)

Kuli Roberts: Naked at the feast

The untimely passing of Kuli Roberts, gossip columnist du jour of post-apartheid’s Gilded Age, shocked the nation. Bongani Madondo, who first encountered her earlier in her…

Siya was a true geek (definitely not a nerd). Most of all, he loved ‘Star Wars’. (Siyabonga Africa/Instagram)

Hamba kahle, Siyabonga Africa — may the force be with you

Siya is an immeasurable loss to South Africa’s media landscape, but he will be best remembered for his countless acts of kindness