The South African social media community has been reeling after the unexpected passing of 24-year-old Thimna Xhamela, a beloved TikTok creator known for his deep love of gospel hymns and his warm, spirited energy.
The Cape of Good Hope District – Wesley Guild Facebook page shared a heartfelt post confirming the tragic loss. The announcement has since been widely shared, with an outpouring of love, shock, and condolences flooding the internet from TikTok followers, fellow influencers, and gospel music lovers alike.
Thimna, who was also fondly known as “untondo ka mamakhe”, meaning his mother’s last born, had already faced immense personal loss after losing both his parents and found comfort and expression in music. Apart from sharing his day-to-day life updates, Thimna used his TikTok platform to share traditional gospel hymns, particularly those rooted in the Wesley Methodist Church, often singing with a passion that resonated deeply with audiences across South Africa.
@xhamela_malimeVuma, Vuma, Nkosi yam!??♬ original sound – Khanyisa Zinto
@xhamela_malimeThis hymn carried me in 2024.?❤️Hymn 206♬ original sound – Thimna – Ntondo ka Mamakhe?
What made Thimna stand out was the authenticity and grace he carried in each post. He didn’t chase trends — he honoured tradition. His videos were raw, heartfelt, and always filled with spiritual upliftment. For many of his followers, he was more than just another TikTok user — he was a source of peace and inspiration, a reminder of home, heritage, and healing.
Now, as the nation comes to terms with his passing, messages of grief and celebration of his life are pouring in across social media platforms. Influencers have paused their regular content to post tributes in his memory, remembering him as a gentle soul who gave more than he asked for. His passing had his followers claiming that they felt as if they knew him personally.
Thimna’s passing is a devastating loss, especially for those who found joy and connection through his content. However, in his 24 years, he left behind a legacy of faith, music, and unwavering strength — the kind that lingers long after the last hymn fades.
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