It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved friend and colleague, Rynette Scholtz. Mamma Nettie, as she was affectionately known, passed away on 4 February 2021 after a short illness.

We mourn this incredibly deep loss, and convey our sincere condolences to her parents, her husband, Jottie, her sons Jan-Hendrik, Martin, Reinhardt and her grandchildren whom she adored.

We are grateful Rynette was able to experience the outpouring of love from all corners of the world, as we all hoped and prayed for her speedy recovery in the past weeks. Her passing leaves a deep void in our hearts.

During her 15 years with the YFU South Africa family, she lived by the ideals of our organisation and leaves a lasting legacy in our network. Her impact is felt by a generation of exchange students whom she embraced as her own. By embodying ubuntu, Rynette’s humanity bridged divides and challenged prejudices. Her reach transcends borders, race and cultures and she made our country, and the world, a better place. We will miss her unconditional love, generosity and her comforting hugs.

A great tree has fallen.

Lala ngoxolo, Mamma Nettie.

Rus sag, Rynette.

Rest peacefully our dear friend.