Singer Nandi Mngoma has penned a deeply moving letter to her father, Dr Thami Mngoma, following his retirement from a lifelong career in medicine.
Dr Mngoma, who qualified as a medical doctor during the apartheid era, recently stepped away from a profession he served with dedication, resilience and quiet excellence for many years.
In her letter, Nandi reflected on the sacrifices and consistency that defined her father’s life, both as a doctor and as a parent.
She described him as her hero, highlighting the late nights, unseen sacrifices and quiet strength that shaped her upbringing.
She wrote that her father gave everything without ever asking for applause, adding that she would always remain “Daddy’s girl”.
Nandi said one of the moments that moved her most was something her father had often said — that his children had been good to him.
She said being good to him was never a burden but a privilege, and credited him for shaping her love, ambition, faith and values.
She described her father’s life as a living testimony of faith, perseverance and purpose.
The letter concluded with words of gratitude, love and thanks for choosing courage again and again.
The tribute has resonated widely, celebrating not only a father-daughter bond but also the legacy of a generation of professionals who served South Africa with dignity during difficult times.