Soweto giants Orlando Pirates have announced the heartbreaking news of the passing of Thubelihle Hlela.
Hlela was a talented member of the club’s media team whose creativity helped transform the Buccaneers’ online presence.
ORLANDO PIRATES ANIMATOR PASSES AWAY
The sad news broke just hours before the Buccaneers’ 2-1 Carling Knockout quarterfinal victory over Magesi FC at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night.
Hlela had been with Orlando Pirates for over four years, working as part of the club’s digital and social media department. During his time, he helped elevate the Sea Robbers’ online content into one of the most engaging and distinctive platforms in South African football, admired even beyond the club’s fan base.
A graduate of the Durban University of Technology, where he studied Fine/Studio Arts, Hlela’s creative journey took him through Lunele, Jin Com, CA Classes, and Strika Communications before joining Orlando Pirates. His artistic eye and playful energy gave the club’s content a unique flair that fans came to love.
CLUB STATEMENT
“Orlando Pirates Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of our own, Thubelihle Hlela – one of our young and gifted animators in the organisation,” the club announced on their social media platforms.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his brother Thabani, family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time.
“Rest in Eternal Peace, ‘SomThubeThube.’”
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