Thandeka Dlamini was a devoted mother, retired school principal, and lifelong advocate for women's education. Born in KwaMashu, she dedicated over four decades to teaching in underserved rural schools. Her passion for learning was infectious, and her students often referred to her as 'Mama D'. In retirement, she ran reading clubs from her home and mentored young girls entering university. She is remembered for her kindness, fierce intelligence, and unmatched love of isiZulu literature.