The IFP Youth Brigade join with millions of South Africans to pay tribute to Orlando Pirates soccer star, Leslie Manyathela, who was a world-class player and a towering role model to many young people.

We join with millions of soccer lovers across the nation in an expression of mourning and most importantly, gratitude. Leslie did so much for a sport that has been such a force for unity in South Africa. Leslie represented his country with distinction, flair and his own inimitable style.

Though it is tragic that Leslie's life was cut short, we thank-God that Leslie's life was a remarkable one that blazed brightly. It was one lived to the full and will serve as an inspiration to aspiring young sports people in this country that there are no glass ceilings for a long time to come.

Leslie life was an affirmation of the truth that it is not death that should frighten us, but not living.

So the IFP Youth Brigade along with millions of others would simply wish to say, "well-done and thank-you." Hamba Kahle Leslie.