Many within the Laudium community and surrounds were left shocked and heartbroken, upon learning (via the Laudium Sun Facebook Page) of the sad passing of veteran photographer and former Laudium resident, Benjamin Rafapa, who had since moved to Soshanguve. Fondly known as ‘Benji,’ the popular & well-liked Benjamin worked for the Laudium Sun as a photographer for many years, with numerous readers recalling on our
Facebook Page, how his smile lit up every community event that he attended with warmth and his ever present camera bag. After leaving the newspaper some years back, Benji continued doing photography for weddings, birthdays & other special occasions within the community and surrounds and also focused on his fumigation business.
*Kamal Jaffer of the Central Muslim Burial (CMB) Committee told the Laudium Sun, “I’ve had many calls from people asking us why we were not assisting with Benjamin’s funeral arrangements as he was known to be a Muslim. I then contacted Moulana Shabeer from Soshanguve, who represents us in that area. However, Moulana Shabeer said that the family had informed him that Benjamin was in fact now a Christian and would be buried accordingly, this coming Saturday.” The Laudium Sun expresses deepest condolences to Benji’s family, friends and all those whose lives he touched. May his soul rest in peace and may his family find strength, comfort and courage, as they navigate this difficult time.
Tributes pour in for ‘papa’ of the community, Benjamin Rafapa
Pastor Kevin Naicker:
“The Laudium community has lost a true pillar with the passing of Mr Benjamin Rafapa, a respected veteran photographer, community servant, and a cherished friend of Bethesda Revival Church. Mr Rafapa, fondly known as Benji, was a household name within Laudium and beyond. Our relationship with him dates back to his early days as an employee at the Laudium Sun, where his professionalism and dedication quickly set him apart. Benjamin was a warm-hearted, caring, generous, and deeply compassionate individual. He consistently went above and beyond the call of duty, often offering his photographic services to Bethesda Revival Church free of charge. His willingness to serve without expectation reflected his genuine love for people and his commitment to the community. He was passionate about helping others and stood firmly in defence of human rights. Because of his integrity, honesty, and high moral standards, Benji earned the trust and affection of many. Families felt comfortable entrusting him with capturing their most special moments, knowing he would do so with dignity and excellence. Benji lived a life marked by integrity, humility, and service — values that will continue to inspire those who knew him. We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the Rafapa family during this difficult time. May they find comfort in knowing that Benjamin’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.”
Vaninda Vanrajalloo of Mustard Street:
“I knew Benjamin. He was a good friend to my uncle, Ratno Naidoo. He was very helpful, took pictures, and even made frames for my uncle. I will dearly miss him. Benjamin’s kindness, generosity, and devotion to family, friends, and the Laudium community will be remembered forever.”
Rami Naidoo of Umber Street, Laudium, said Benjamin was the anchor man of the Laudium Sun: “Wonderful personality, respect, lots of humility and always smiling. The community knew him very well. After the Laudium Sun, he did his own business while residing in Umber Street. I am very sad to hear about his passing. Rest in peace. brother Benjamin. Our deepest sympathy to your family. God’s blessings.”
Lawi Mukadam, owner of The Factory Shop on Jewel Street:
“Benjamin, fondly known as Benji, used to buy chemicals from our shop for his business, and from the very beginning, he was nothing but supportive and respectful. He was a good human being in the truest sense of the word. Benjamin was a regular visitor to my shop and always made time for a warm greeting and a meaningful conversation. Every time he came in, he treated me with kindness and dignity. He never looked down on anyone and always spoke with sincerity. He also gave good advice, advice that came from experience and genuine concern. Benjamin was a true gentleman whose respect extended far beyond personal relationships. He had respect not only for me, but for everyone he encountered, regardless of who they were. That was one of his greatest qualities. What stood out most, was Benjamin’s passion for serving the Laudium community. He often spoke about how he looked after the community and how important it was for him to help wherever he could. He genuinely cared about the people of Laudium and felt a strong responsibility towards them.
Benjamin’s passing has left a deep void. People like Benjamin are rare. He lived his life with humility, purpose, and grace. His kindness will always be remembered by those who knew him. With the grace of God, may Benjamin’s soul be blessed, and may he rest in eternal peace. He will be dearly missed.”
Ayesha Hassem of Mocha Street, also remembered Benjamin’s warmth and friendliness:
“He used to greet me all the time. Whenever I saw him, he would say, ‘Hello, how are you?’ Even when I told him I was busy and going somewhere, he never reacted negatively. He was never nasty or strange—he was always very friendly. He would often greet me with a simple, ‘Hey, hello, how are you? Where are you going?’ That is all I can say about him. Together, these memories reflect the same truth: Benjamin was a man whose presence brought comfort, encouragement, and respect to everyone around him. He lived with grace, care, and a deep devotion to the Laudium community. His kindness and generosity will be remembered for years to come, and his absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who knew him.”
Dev Govender, from Umber Street, shared his thoughts with the Laudium Sun:
“Benjamin was really a good guy, and it’s hard to believe that he is no longer with us. He was always smiling, never got angry, and treated everyone with such gentleness. His loss is a great one for the Laudium community. We will miss him deeply.”