In a poignant and heartfelt post, Lynn Forbes, the mother of the late Kiernan “AKA” Forbes, opened up about reconnecting with Louisa Zondo, mother of the late Ricardo “Riky Rick” Makhado — a moment layered with love, loss, and shared resilience. The post came just days after what would have been Riky Rick’s birthday on July 20th, a date that stirred deep emotions among fans, family, and the broader South African hip hop community.
Reflecting on their journey, Lynn shared:
“Connected with my dear friend @louisazondo this morning. We summited Kilimanjaro together in 2018, oblivious to the mountains we would have to climb as mothers. We each lost our son, a year apart… first Ricardo (Riky Rick) and then Kiernan… young kings and friends with powerful voices. We’re still climbing, together. Not always strong, but always resilient. Focused, steady, and committed to preserving their legacies.”
What began as a physical climb up Mount Kilimanjaro in 2018 has since become a metaphorical ascent through unimaginable grief. Lynn and Louisa’s sons — both iconic voices in South African hip hop — passed away within a year of each other, leaving behind not only unforgettable musical legacies, but also devastated families and a nation still trying to make sense of the loss.
Their renewed connection this week is a reminder of the quiet battles fought by those left behind — mothers carrying the weight of legacy, love, and heartbreak.
The timing of the post is especially significant. July 20th marked Riky Rick’s birthday, and while fans celebrated the day by sharing his music and tributes online, for his family — especially his mother — it was a deeply personal reminder of a life gone too soon.
Riky Rick’s impact on the culture stretched far beyond music. He championed authenticity, mental health awareness, and creative freedom. That spirit lives on through his mother’s continued advocacy and public vulnerability, including the release of her memoir “Dearest MaRiky.”
Since their sons’ passings, both Lynn and Louisa have committed themselves to honouring their legacies, Lynn through the Kiernan Forbes Foundation and Louisa through the Riky Rick Foundation. From music releases and memorial foundations to public speaking and emotional healing work, their strength has inspired thousands navigating grief, depression, and personal loss.
Their shared post wasn’t just a reunion — it was a quiet vow to keep climbing, no matter how steep the mountain.
Rest in power, Ricardo. Rest in power, Kiernan. Your mothers are still climbing. So are we.
