South Africa Honors Designer Maria McCloy

Why this is here: Friends remembered Maria McCloy for her connection to the Yeoville community and the artists who found a home at Westminster Mansions.

At Johannesburg’s Nelson Mandela Auditorium, artists and family members gathered on Wednesday to remember Maria McCloy. The memorial service celebrated McCloy’s work as a designer, DJ, writer, and journalist. Attendees included DJ Sbu, Kagiso Lediga, Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuza, and Rami Chuene, along with friends Milisuthando Bongela, Thebe Magugu, and Chris Wilson.

Mourners shared stories about McCloy’s impact on the South African arts scene and her ability to connect people. Thandiswa Mazwai’s daughter Malaika described McCloy as a second mother, noting the many “babies” she left behind. Neo Makhakhe, representing the family, remembered her kindness and attentiveness.

Though celebrated for her achievements, Thandiswa Mazwai expressed her grief and admitted struggling to create since McCloy’s death. Designer Thula Sindi noted McCloy’s generosity inspired others to act for her. The full extent of McCloy’s creative output and influence remains to be documented.