Grema Khwela is nothing short of legendary, and it's easy to see why!

Written by Miriam de Jager and edited by Gerda Potgieter

Over the years, I have had countless conversations and interviews with inspiring people. I love to share their stories in the hope that it would inspire others. If there is one person that I would like to mention as one of the most inspiring people I’ve met, it must be Grema (Mama) Khwela, whom I met during one of my many visits to the KwaSizabantu Mission. The talented Miriam de Jager crafted the article below.

Born on 30 November 1946 in Oswathini, Mama Khwela grew up in a Christian household with her father as a minister. After her father's death in 1963, her mother struggled to support the family, prompting the young woman to seek employment. She heard about the late Rev. Erlo Stegen, a preacher in Maphumulo. Although he couldn't offer jobs, he invited them to a service where he preached about sin and repentance.

Although touched by his message, Mama Khwela resisted confession, believing in her self-righteousness. Later, Rev. Stegen asked her to join his team in Maphumulo. Welcomed by the community, she helped with cooking and attended evening services, but continued to hold back from fully surrendering to God.

However, later, a new fire burned within her – a fire to serve God. She began travelling with fellow coworkers, witnessing countless miracles, people confessing their sins, the blind receiving sight, and lives transformed. Together with Lidia Dube, another co-worker, she served tirelessly during the day and shared a special time of fellowship in the evenings.

Her calling continued after marriage. She remained fervent in seeking the fullness of the Holy Spirit, and in time, the Lord graciously filled her with His Spirit. She dedicated herself to serving in whatever manner God led as she served Him and His people. In 1970, the mission of the late Rev. Stegen moved to its existing premises in Kranskop. For one year, Mama Khwela remained in Maphumulu, caring for her children. During this time, she taught young women and children in the community from God’s Word.  A year later, Rev. Stegen arranged for a house to be built closer to KwaSizabantu, just across the valley. Mama Khwela cared for her children while continuing her ministry. She left home at 5 am every morning to prepare a timely breakfast for the coworkers and guests at KwaSizabantu. During the day, she helped where needed, carted water, cooked food, and cared for the visiting children.

She tells of God’s miraculous provision with fondness, time and time again: “There were times when we went to the kitchen and there was nothing to cook. There was no food. We would collect wild plants to cook. If we didn’t have something, we would go to the co-workers. They taught us to go on our knees. This was a great help to us, because we quickly learnt that when we go on our knees, God answers and does miracles for us”.

Through the years, she endured hardships with joy. She and her husband committed themselves entirely to God's work, trusting Him to supply their needs. Even when her husband was away for extended periods, she taught her children to pray instead of seeking help from others. God always heard their prayers and answered.

Mama Khwela dedicated her life to serving, singing in choirs, preparing meals, and ensuring the sick and needy were cared for. She and her husband remained steadfast in their calling, never seeking employment outside of the mission, believing that God’s work came first.

Throughout her life, she experienced God's faithfulness. She saw the power of prayer, the beauty of serving, and the joy of witnessing lives transformed. To this day, she sings with conviction, “When I remember what the Lord has done, I’ll never go back anymore.”

If you have the chance to attend one of the KwaSizabantu Youth Conferences, which is held twice a year, be sure to stop by the bustling kitchen area! You might just meet the incredible Grema (Mama) Khwela, a true gem who is cherished by all who know her. Known for her warmth and dedication, Mama Khwela tirelessly cares for the well-being of the youth. It’s inspiring to see her in action, ensuring that delicious meals are prepared and ready for the thousands of young attendees eager to share this experience. Cooking for such a large crowd is no small feat, but Mama Khwela approaches it with grace and enthusiasm! With countless stories from the Mission's early days, she embodies the spirit of the community and the love it holds. Get ready to be inspired by her kindness and commitment!

(If you liked the story above, read more such inspiring stories in our sister publication, Devoted, for free by following the link: https://www.devotedmag.co.za/)