It is not often that you meet someone who epitomises the word memorable. Whether it was because of his vibrant laughter that could be heard by staff on the other side of the building, or his engaging way of interacting with children – Khonzani Lembeni was memorable.

This is why the tragic news of his death shocked the Two Oceans Aquarium family. Sadly, Khonzani passed away in his sleep on 26 April 2014, leaving a gaping hole in the hearts of his colleagues, especially those in the Environmental Education Centre. His absence leaves us with a little less magic in the water.

Khonzani was part of the Aquarium family from 2006. His potential to teach children was ‘discovered’ while he was working as a magician at the College of Magic. He was offered a teaching internship at the Two Oceans Aquarium, a position he held for two years.

Khonzani tried a change of scenery as a membership assistant in our membership centre, but returned to the Environmental Education Centre as a full-time teacher in 2009. He soon excelled in the classroom, taking over much of the day-to-day teaching in our discovery centres. It was the extra programmes – the Wetland Township Tour and the Junior Biologist course for grade 6s – that really inspired him and he thrived on the positive response he received from the children he taught. 

In honour of Khonzani we will be holding a ‘Stories with Khonzani’ evening at the Two Oceans Aquarium. If you knew him and would like to attend, please join us:

Date: 26 May 2014
Time: 18h30
Venue: Two Oceans Aquarium

See also:

• Two Oceans Aquarium Teacher works his magic
• Video: Our teacher makes magic at TEDxSeaPoint
• Khonzani rules! Two Oceans Aquarium teacher wins award (again)

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