Yesterday marked the funeral of Bhekabuko “Beekay” Mchunu, who succumbed to an illness that had been troubling him for some time, last week. Bheka’s father, in an interview, shared that Bheka’s existence was foretold to him when his elder brother was still an infant. A voice came to him in a dream and informed him that they were destined to have a boy child after his brother, who should be named Bhekabuko. “Beekay” has been a blessing to his family and has achieved much in a short span of time, his father said.
His funeral service was held at KwaNsumpa Sports Field in Ngwelezane. Attended by His Worship the Mayor of King Cetshwayo District, the mayor of Umhlathuze, the Mayor of UMfolozi, and other distinguished guests, the event honored Bhekabuko’s significant impact on the community. He was not only well-known in his local area but also proudly represented the King Cetshwayo District while working for Ukhozi FM.
Bheka “Beekay” Mchunu’s radio career gained momentum over the past few years, starting from Durban Youth Radio, where he hosted a late-night show called Lovers Nest on weekdays. He then transitioned to Izwi Lomzansi community radio station, where he initially hosted the breakfast show and later the afternoon drive. He was part of the team that propelled this KZN community radio station to the number one rank in the province. Thanks to his natural talent and charisma, Mchunu became one of the regular presenters on Ukhozi FM, one of the top PBS radio stations globally.
His versatility and dynamic personality made him relevant across all radio shows, regardless of the target audience, leading to him hosting Sibhukuda Kwesimanzonzo, a late-night show on Thursdays, as well as Sigiya Ngengoma, a weekend prime-time show with over 2 million listeners. Beekay’s life reflects humble beginnings, starting his primary schooling in Mpangeni, Dondotha. His passion for education led him to Velangezwi High School in kwaMaphumulo, where he completed his matriculation at Enhlangwini High School in Ntambanana, Empangeni. As a true leader, Bheka served in various youth organizations, including the Students’ Representative Council of Durban University of Technology, where he completed his National Diploma in Language Practice. Concerned about education gaps in rural and urban areas, he founded KZN Matric Excellence, a matric rewriting center aimed at providing matriculants with opportunities to improve their chances of accessing tertiary education.
The legacy of Bhekabuko “Beekay” Mchunu resonates as a testament to resilience, dedication, and community impact. His untimely passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, yet his contributions to the world of radio and education will endure as a source of inspiration for generations to come. Beekay’s journey, from humble beginnings to becoming a beacon of hope and opportunity for youth across KwaZulu-Natal, serves as a reminder of the power of determination and the ability to effect positive change. As we bid farewell to a beloved son, brother, friend, and leader, let us honor his memory by continuing to strive for excellence and upliftment in our communities. Though he may be gone, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched and the indelible mark he left on the world. Rest in peace, Beekay, your light will shine forever bright.
