Oti Mabuse pulled out of appearing at a charity event this weekend after receiving the devastating news of her niece’s death.
Earlier on Saturday, the Dancing On Ice judge paid tribute to her beloved niece Tlhogi who died at the age of 28.
The 31-year-old TV star had been due to attend Night of the Stars later that evening, where proceeds were being donated to aid in Ukraine amid the war with Russia, but said she would not be able to make it.
In an announcement on her Instagram stories, the professional dancer said: ‘The things that happen in life can’t be controlled.
‘Tonight’s @otimabusedancestudio and hospice of hope charity are hosting an event and the proceeds are going to help people and children in Ukraine.
‘It’s been a long journey to get to this point and such a shame I can’t attend for this I send my sincerest apologies.
‘I wish you still all a lovely evening you are definitely in good hands and please know that all your donations will be helping plenty in this sad time of need.’
Oti continued: ‘I’m unbelievably proud and equally grateful to all involved making this evening what it is from the dancers, organisers, sponsors, clients and of course all the heads of departments.
‘As dancers there’s very little we can do but we can do but use our power of dance to raise awareness.
‘And Night of the Stars was our way of saying – there is our way to helping those in need right now [sic].’
It came after Oti shared sweet photos of her with niece Tlhogi and shared her shock at her sudden death.
She wrote: ‘How is this the last time I would hold you in my arms. I am so shattered inside I can’t even begin to describe the pain.
‘This is not how this was supposed to go. We had plans together, travel the world and dance on a beach in Jamaica for my birthday.’
Reminiscing on growing up together, Oti added: ‘I used to fetch you everyday from crèche, swimming, chess since we were 8. You were only 28 yet the kindest, sweetest human being in my life!
‘I’ve lost my niece, my little sister, my best friend. Life dealt you the harshest card but you always chose to win, you always fought to come out the other side above it all with a smile on your face.
‘I love you much with all my heart and now you’re gone and I feel lost in more ways than one to a pain I’ve never felt before. I’m still calling you and texting you trying to understand – how? Why?’
She concluded her post by writing: ‘May you rest in peace and power my sweet Tlhogi. Say hi to Koko, Abuti Neo Le Malume Tshepo. I promise to take care of Sesi, Nanikie and Mpho for you x.’
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