Tributes have been pouring in for rapper AKA’s late fiancee, Anele Tembe. Nelli, as she was affectionately known, reportedly died after allegedly jumping out of a building on Sunday morning, 11 April.

Nelli’s family, along with AKA’s family, have released a joint statement expressing their shock.

“It is with the deepest regret that we, the Tembe and Forbes families, confirm the untimely passing of our beloved fiancee, daughter, sister, and daughter-in-law, Anele Tembe. Anele tragically passed on in the early hours of this morning, Sunday 11 April 2021,” the statement read.

“We are dealing with our emotions, as she was an exceptional and gifted young woman, with so much life ahead of her. She had a sweet nature about her and was always nurturing to those around her.”
Nelli’s former teacher Jackie Cameron, who owns Jackie Cameron School of Food and Wine where Nelli studied culinary, said she’s shattered.

My heart is shattered to lose such a beautiful young girl. A person full of youthful energy and oozing potential,” she said.

Jackie described Nelli as a hardworking and dedicated person.“I loved our many in-depth chats. I loved the way you extended yourself. I loved that you had a deep desire to impress. I loved that you worked hard. I loved that you never quit,” she said.

“You pushed hard when most people would have given up. From never having mopped a floor properly, to leaving my school as an absolute professional at high pressure-hosing, you took it all on with open arms.

“You impressed me with your dedication. Thank you for showing me the possibilities of growth that are within a students’ reach.

“Rest in peace. May strength be with the Tembe family – especially Anele’s biggest supporter, her father Moses, as well as Princess – and her fiancee AKA. I offer condolences and love from all at Jackie Cameron School of Food and Wine – past and present students, the team, and our family.”