Don Design Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Late Friend AKA
Don Design Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Late Friend AKA
Don Design, a close friend of South African rapper AKA, has penned a heartfelt message to him following his burial on Saturday, February 18. AKA, whose real name is Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, passed away earlier this month at the age of 28, leaving behind a legion of fans and loved ones who are still mourning his loss.
Don Design, who was part of AKA’s entourage and often traveled with him, said that his heart is shattered and that it still feels surreal that he has to write such a message to Kiernan. In an emotional post on Instagram, he expressed his gratitude for their friendship and brotherhood, saying that AKA had believed in him and his dreams even when he lacked such belief himself.
“I keep thinking about all the moments we shared and replaying our memories together. I wish I had one last chance to thank you for showing me what the true meaning of brotherhood is. I am indebted to you for believing in me, believing in my dreams and aspirational visions, especially in moments where I lacked such belief,” he wrote.
Don Design also praised AKA’s work ethic and his honesty and integrity in following his path, saying that he will try his level best to follow the path that AKA has laid for them. He then sent his love to AKA’s family members, urging them to let prayer be their ray of hope and to find comfort in the Lord during this difficult time.
DJ Zinhle, AKA’s ex-girlfriend and the mother of his daughter Kairo, also paid tribute to him in a touching post on Instagram. She expressed her sorrow at the fact that AKA had been robbed of his time with his daughter and his family, saying that she would give anything for Kairo to have more time with him.
“The thought of her asking questions breaks me. What do I do when she misses and needs you?” she wrote.
Despite their differences, DJ Zinhle and AKA had always put Kairo first and worked hard to co-parent her in a loving and supportive environment. DJ Zinhle said that they had come a long way and had figured out how to make it work for their daughter, and she thanked AKA for loving Kairo the way he did.
“We will continue to do what’s best for her, we will raise her in a loving environment that encourages forgiveness, one that is deeply rooted in the great spirit of being a family…over everything else. We are all responsible for her happiness now, my family and yours will pull together to make sure she is the happiest girl in the world…exactly how you always made her feel,” she wrote.
As the South African music industry continues to mourn the loss of one of its brightest stars, it is clear that AKA’s legacy will live on through the love and support of his friends, family, and fans. Don Design and DJ Zinhle’s heartfelt tributes are a testament to the impact that AKA had on their lives and the lives of so many others, and they serve as a reminder to cherish the time we have with our loved ones and to always put family first.
