DJ Zinhle, also known as Ntombezinhle Jiyane, was preparing for a show when she received the devastating news that her on-and-off partner and the father of her child, AKA, had been killed in a shooting at a Durban restaurant. Immediately, she canceled her performance and put everything on hold as she tried to process the tragic news.
One of her biggest concerns was how to explain this heartbreaking loss to their daughter, Kairo. How could she tell the then-seven-year-old that her father was gone, and that she would never see him again? These thoughts weighed heavily on DJ Zinhle's mind.
Eight months have passed since that fateful day, but DJ Zinhle still finds it difficult to come to terms with the reality of AKA's absence. She admits that every day is a struggle, knowing that Kairo will grow up without her father. However, the support of AKA's parents, Lynn and Tony Forbes, as well as his girlfriend Nadia Nakai, has helped Kairo cope with her new reality.
Despite putting on a brave face, DJ Zinhle worries about Kairo's emotional well-being. She shares that even when Kairo is with her grandparents, she fears receiving a phone call with news of a breakdown. The family has become even closer, leaning on each other for support, particularly for Kairo. However, DJ Zinhle acknowledges that grief affects people differently, and breakdowns can happen on any given day.
You Magazine caught up with DJ Zinhle at her business property in Fourways, Johannesburg.
She reveals that this particular day is overwhelming for her. Kairo is attending the 18th annual BET Hip Hop Awards in Atlanta, accompanied by her grandmother, to accept an award on behalf of AKA. The pain in DJ Zinhle's voice is evident as she shares this information.
The loss of AKA has left a void in their lives, but DJ Zinhle and her family are determined to support each other through this difficult time. They will continue to be there for Kairo and find strength in their bond as they navigate life without AKA.
The loss of AKA has left a void in their lives, but DJ Zinhle and her family are determined to support each other through this difficult time. They will continue to be there for Kairo and find strength in their bond as they navigate life without AKA.