Zané de Jager (Photo: Hoërskool Waterkloof / Facebook)
Zané de Jager, a grade 11 learner at Waterkloof High School in Pretoria, died unexpectedly on Wednesday at the Thaba fieldwork camp.
“This is an indescribable loss,” confirmed the main day management of the Voortrekkers in a statement. “Our hearts go out to her family, relatives, friends, Voortrekkers, the camp management, camp leader and youth members of Thaba and everyone affected by this tragedy.”
The cause of her death is not yet known.
Karin Stoffberg, chief leader of the Voortrekkers, told Maroela Media that the organizers of the camp were in constant contact with her commando leader, Lourens van Staden. Her parents were on holiday in Botswana when the tragedy happened.
“We pray for comfort and strength from the Holy Spirit in this very difficult time. We offer the family, relatives and everyone who is deeply saddened in our prayers.”
The Thaba field camp takes place on a farm about 20 km northwest of Brits. The camp offers an experience where field, survival and life skills are presented by experts and learned through experience.
Meanwhile, messages of condolence are pouring in.
“With great sadness we say goodbye to a Klofie, Zané de Jager,” wrote the Waterkloof High School. “Her beautiful smile and humanity will forever be remembered in our community. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and everyone who knew her. May she rest in peace.”
Her primary school, Laerskool Monumentpark, also shared a message of condolence: “Our hearts go out to all who knew and loved Zané. May you tangibly experience His closeness in this time of mourning. Psalm 34:19: ‘The Lord is near to those who are broken in heart, He saves those who are crushed in spirit.'”
Other Voortrekker commandos also showed sympathy.
Sytze Wierda Voortrekkers writes: “Our hearts ache with you. We express our deepest condolences and sympathy to the family of Zané de Jager, as well as the wider community, on her death. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, and we carry you in our hearts in this particularly difficult time. May the Lord’s comfort and peace surround you and give you strength for every day.”
Rietvallei Voortrekkers: “In times like this we stand closer to each other. We carry you in our prayers and thoughts. Rest In Peace Zané de Jager.”