File Photo: Arshad Akoob in the lands of Al Quds, Palestine.
Saturday, September 9th marked the end of a beautiful life journey for one of Laudium’s most selfless individuals, Arshad Akoob.
At age 51, Arshad departed this world after a valiant battle with illness. His presence will forever be felt in the hearts of those whose lives he transformed through acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion.
Known fondly as “Bha”, his reputation preceded him wherever he went. No task seemed too large nor request too small for him; he always found ways to lend aid and extend comfort to those in need.
“I am heartbroken for my dear friend Shehnaaz who lost her beloved husband, Arshad Bha. In her time of grief, it would be most befitting to take some time to reflect on who Arshad Akoob was.
Arshad Bha had the biggest, compassionate heart; he served our community generously, with a beautiful kindness and magnanimity that can only be described as Ihsan. When the elderly patients in our community needed lifts to get to Steve Biko, Kalafong or Pta West hospital, he provided a free shuttle service, never taking credit for his work. Most recently, a few weeks back, he bought a brand new kombi for the patients transport when the old one was giving trouble. But that is only one aspect of what he did. Arshad Bha arranged with other philanthropists the tea, coffee, fruit and milk for the patients at Kalafong hospital. He employed a full-time worker at Kalafong hospital to make tea and coffee daily and hand out healthy snacks and fruit to outpatients. Together with his pillar of support, our dear sister Shehnaaz, they ensured that no Muslim patient at Kalafong and Steve Biko hospitals went without halal food. In addition, many indigent patients food needs were taken care of, such as nursing mothers and lodger mothers whose babies were still in NICU. (The hospitals do not provide food for these mothers and they have to source their own.)
Arshad Bha did not do anything for name, fame or glory. He organized from behind the scenes, lightening the burden of many sick patients and their families.
On Saturday 9 September our community has lost a giant. Arshad Bha’s legacy lives on in the projects that he started and sponsored but also, he left an indelible mark on the lives of the many people he helped; quietly, namelessly and selflessly.” Dr Shakira Akabor of Aid International.
“It is with a great sense of sadness that we the community of Laudium mourn the loss of Arshaad bha, who made it his life’s purpose to make a positive difference in the lives of others and the betterment of our community.
Arshaad bha is no stranger to the Laudium community, as he spent most of his life serving the community.
In 2010, I recall our first meeting at his home to establish, The Gardens Social Services, a non profit organization and he was unanimously elected as the first chairman.
Under his leadership we opened the first “ASSISTED LIVING HOME” in Laudium.
He also played a pivotal role in establishing the “HOSPI FEED” at the local government hospitals and “HOSPI- SHUTTLE” a free transport service to the community of Laudium and surrounds to the neighbouring government Hospitals.
When there was a division of responsibility and management of The Gardens Social Services changed, Arshaad bha established AID INTERNATIONAL, and continued to successfully operate the HOSPI- SHUTTLE, HOSPI-FEED, HOSPI-VISIT and NEO-NATAL WARD FEEDING.
Arshaad bha left a legacy which continued to operate even during his years of ill-health and which we hope to continue in his memory for many years to come.
Over and above this he was a dedicated family man who enjoyed entertaining. My beautiful friend Shenaaz played a pivotal role in all initiatives started by Arshaadbha, all the while dutifully serving her family. He can rest knowing that both his sons, Mikaeel and Hamza, share the same empathy and dedication of service to humanity. What stood out was his passion to serve, especially service to those who were indigent. He was always willing to assist, with his time, treasures and advice.
May there be comfort in knowing that someone so special will never be forgotten.
He was truly a wonderful human being with an amazing heart, he will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
May The Almighty accept all his good deeds and elevate his status in jannah.
May Allah grant strength to his family at their huge loss.” Hafsa Carim, Laudium Women’s Network and Pretoria Muslim Women United.
The Hospi-Shuttle that Arshad established
“Arshad Akoob as we fondly knew as Bha has left us with the best memories of him for his amazing big heart.
His courage and strength stood as an example to all of us that knew him.
His legacy will live on in our hearts.” Ferhana Jassat of Pretoria Muslim Women United.
“It is with a heavy heart and a profound sense of loss that we come together to remember and honour a remarkable soul, Arshaad Akoob. Arshaad was not just a member of our community; he was a shining example of what it truly means to be a philanthropist.
For five decades, I had the privilege of calling Arshaad my neighbour in Mink Street. I watched him grow from a young boy into a man of unwavering integrity and kindness. He never questioned, but gave wholeheartedly, embodying the spirit of selflessness that defined him.
Arshaad's generosity knew no bounds, especially when it came to supporting our welfare programs and families in need at Laudium Care Services for the Aged. Our end-of-year functions with our seniors held at his Chicken Licken outlet in Laudium were a testament to his unwavering commitment. Arshaad not only opened his doors but fully sponsored these events, making them memorable occasions filled with warmth and laughter.
Beyond our organization, Arshaad's benevolence extended to countless other charities, touching lives far and wide. His passing at the young age of 51 leaves an irreplaceable void in our community. We, his neighbour of nearly five decades, feel this loss deeply, as I regarded him as my own son. Arshaad's presence was a source of comfort and strength, a constant reminder of the goodness that resides in people's hearts.
As a social worker at Laudium Care Services for the Aged, I can attest to the immeasurable impact Arshaad had on our organization and the lives of those we serve. He was a true pillar of our community, and his spirit will forever guide us in our mission to care for the elderly.
May his soul find eternal peace, and may his legacy of love and selflessness forever shine as a beacon of hope in our community.
Our deepest condolences to his family during this difficult time.
Though he may be physically absent, Arshaad's spirit will forever dwell in the hearts of those he touched. Let us carry forward his legacy by continuing his work of making our community a better place, one act of kindness at a time.” Ruxmani Soma (Aunty Rooki).
“In fond memory of Arshad Akoob, a true humanitarian whose generosity knew no bounds. Uncle Arshad's tireless efforts in the realm of charity work have left an indelible mark on our hearts and our community. Having had the privilege of growing up in his presence, I saw the world become a better place through his unwavering commitment to making a difference. Though he may have left us, his legacy of kindness and compassion will continue to inspire generations to come. My deepest condolences to Mikaeel, Hamza, Aunty Shenaaz and Asghar Akoob and Uncle Arshad’s Siblings.” Mukhtaar Yoonas Cassim.
“Demise of a Community Activist is a gap in the hearts of many. Late Arshad (RA) was a soldier in his field of community work. He strived and dedicated his time towards serving Humanity. Arshad held the hands of many. He walked the path with the needy. “NO” was never on his tongue. Arshad will be missed by many. His efforts of service to humanity will travel down memory lane. May Allah bless Arshad Akoob (RA) with the best in Paradise.” Moulana Aboobaker Chouglay.
Arshad leaves behind not only his family members, but countless friends, neighbours, and acquaintances who were inspired by his boundless humanitarianism. Mother Aunty Amina, Wife Shenaaz, Sons Mikaeel and Hamza, Daughter in law Ammaarah, Brother Asghar, Sisters Zahida and Nadia, are now forced to carry on without their beloved patriarch. However, they take comfort knowing that his soul remains alive in each act of goodwill performed in his memory.
Arshad and his wife Shenaaz
We cannot quantify the impact Arshad Akoob had on our community over his time here, but we know it to have been immeasurable. In these trying days ahead, let us follow his lead by striving to uplift others and spread joy where there may exist sorrow. Let us pay tribute to his legacy by embodying the virtues he modeled daily: humility, benevolence, and service.
May Allah grant Arshad the Highest stages in Jannah and his loved ones strength and fortitude during this challenging period. Aameen.
