I've been asked to write something about Lebo Mathosa, the giant talent we have lost so tragically. But writing about a loved one who is no more is the most difficult thing to do.
What do you say about a person who meant so much to you? How can I put my feelings on paper?
I first met Lebo Mathosa and Thembi Seete, the lead vocalists and dancers of Boom Shaka, in 1994. I was a photography student in Pretoria and they were hot dancers trying to catch the attention of talent scouts.
We met at a nightclub in Hillbrow where we were all regulars. To be honest, I didn't like them at first because I thought they were too young to be seen at nightclubs, but also because their dance moves were very seductive.
In my circles I was known as the best dancer and perhaps I did not enjoy the competition
The next time Lebo and I crossed paths was towards the end of 1998. I was an intern at The Star and Boom Shaka was already making waves in the music industry. We met in Newtown at a photo shoot to which a colleague had invited me.
The girls were looking as gorgeous as ever, and much to my surprise, Lebo recognised me. She was already an established artist, and there I was, still an intern. Even then there was something about Lebo that set her apart from all the rest.
She had a presence no one could ignore. Lebo had set very high standards for herself. She was on top of her game. I found her journey from skimpily dressed girl seeking attention at a Hillbrow nightclub to pop diva very inspiring.
She was highly ambitious, and that strengthened our friendship even more, because we were one of a kind. I watched Lebo's career blossom as much as she watched me grow professionally.
I was always humbled each time she introduced me to her circle of friends as her sister, the award-winner, telling them how much she respected me.
Lebo was a kind, loving and compassionate person, but she refused to take stick from anyone.
With me, Lebo could be whoever she wanted to be. When she was hurting, she said so. When she was broke, she told me.
On numerous occasions she invited me to her house but I never had the chance to take up those invitations.
It's something I bitterly regret now.
She enjoyed being photographed by me because she thought one day she would need those pictures for her biography.
I will forever be grateful that Lebo - unlike my parents, who died too soon to witness my successful career - shared that path with me, always encouraging me.
But I can understand why God would want such a beautiful angel at his side.