PATRONS of a local drinking hole in Mlungisi Township, called Norman’s Tavern, recently got together to celebrate the late owner of the business.
The group of men and women had a golf and jazz music day when they walked down the memory lane in Simphiwe ‘Manyewu’ Tyobeka’s life.
Manyewu was popularly known as the ‘people’s person’ because of his attitude and the care he had for others in his community. He had made friends as a local golfer and jazz music fan, who crisscrossed the province playing his favourite game.
He had employed local residents in his business before he died on November 30 last year.
Following his death, one of his workers from his street also passed away, leaving four children behind.
Following in Manyewu’s footsteps of good deeds, the patrons of Norman’s Tavern have pledged to adopt the four orphaned children, whom they said they would assist with their daily needs which include school-related expenses, even Christmas clothes and gifts.
An old friend of Manyewu, Sydney ‘Buteyi’ Mpithi said his old friend had taught them love, respect and to value one another.
“Manyewu was everything to us. He united us as friends and spread his love across the community. And if you walk around and ask anyone about him, only sweet stories you will hear. He was a sweetheart. And we want to continue with his legacy,” said Mpithi.
Another friend, Gcobani Msindwana, added that they wanted to spread Manyewu’s values into a culture that could help unite residents and cultivate a culture of oneness.
“We, as his friends learnt a lot from him. We now want to pass on what we learnt from him to the youngsters because wherever Manyewu stepped there was motivation, peace and a sense of hope,” he said.
He said they were also planning to establish a sports tournament under Manyewu’s name.
