South Africans were left deeply emotional after a touching video surfaced showing a mother accepting her late daughter’s degree during a graduation ceremony at Rosebank College. The moment, shared on TikTok by the institution, has since gone viral, stirring national grief and admiration.
The late student, Sanele Immaculate Sibiya, had been a hardworking learner at the private higher education institution, but she tragically passed away before she could wear her cap and gown. Her mother, overwhelmed with both pride and sorrow, was invited by the college to walk the stage on her daughter’s behalf. She clutched Sanele’s graduation regalia as she crossed the stage, escorted by school staff, while the audience applauded and cried along with her.
The institution honoured the young woman by captioning the video:
“In loving memory of Sanele Immaculate Sibiya. Today, her mother walked the graduation stage in her honour — a moment that moved hearts and reminded us all of the strength of a mother’s love and the enduring legacy of a life gone too soon. Though Sanele is no longer with us, her dreams, dedication, and light live on.”
The moving tribute not only celebrated Sanele’s achievements but also spotlighted the deep sacrifices many South African parents make for their children’s education. Social media was flooded with comments of sympathy, reflection, and sorrow.
One user, @Pearls♥️, commented:
“This is so sad. Attending your deceased child’s graduation is just trauma-triggering. I know they are trying to honour their child, but seeing other graduates dressed up, knowing yours was supposed to be there too? My mom would collapse, no joke.”
Another, @thullysibuyi, shared:
“Taking your child to a private college. Working so hard and never reaping the rewards is so unfair. I swear God’s ways hurt us sometimes.”
@Tumi Nkosi added:
“As a mom, I can’t imagine this woman’s pain. I admire her for being brave enough to walk down that stage. Endless Godly comfort to her and her family.”
Many were struck by how the moment captured the reality of life and death in such a powerful and symbolic way. The ceremony became more than just a graduation—it was a recognition of dreams interrupted, of love unshaken by death, and of a community’s compassion in mourning.
https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMS4TybvE/
The tragedy also led to a broader conversation about the cost and emotional investment parents in South Africa pour into their children’s education, with many praising the mom’s courage and the institution’s humanity.
In a time when viral videos often highlight trivial or comedic moments, this one stood out by showing a raw and heart-wrenching example of love, loss, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child.
Though Sanele Immaculate Sibiya never got to wear her gown, her legacy walked that stage—and her mother made sure she was not forgotten.