He wanted to be remembered for spreading love, positivity, sense of style and mostly taking care of others. After winning the hearts of many for decades, on 23 February 2022, Rikhado "Riky Rick" Makhado, an icon, rapper, producer, and hip-hop artist, lost his battle with mental illness. Before he passed away, he tweeted his final tweet; "I'll return a stronger man". One year later, during youth month, his track 'Stronger' will be released by his family encouraging good mental health and wellness through the newly formed Riky Rick Foundation.

 

HIS LEGACY

The foundation run by his family and business associates aims to bring attention to the issue of deteriorating mental health and well-being, as well as raise funds to support the efforts of individuals and organisations who promote mental well-being. The foundation is collaborating with an array of partners, including TBWA Hunt Lascaris and Sony Music Africa. The foundation has created a place to respond to Riky's rallying call to care for young people. "Please believe in young people. Give them as many opportunities as they need to prove themselves at any cost,"Riky tweeted eight days before his death.

  

 

FAMILY FIRST

His mother, Louisa Zondo affirmed, "We hope that the Riky Rick Foundation for the Promotion of Artivism will inspire individuals and organisation to care for young people's well-being and their mental health as well as participate in bringing about the changes we want in society, in essence, to stay shining."

 In Riky's own words taken from his social media posts, we get to hear his voice in new music, one more time. The song itself was woven together by Riky's long-time collaborators Ganja Beatz, Audio Militia, and lyricist Lebo Machudi. In one of his very last interviews, Riky says, "I don't care how people remember me, as long as I've left something people can build on."  Riky had a huge influence on many. He had a legacy of uplifting those around him and giving them a chance to shine. And to continue that work, the foundation states that 'tronger'was released, not only to keep Riky's legacy alive but to bring awareness to mental health issues and allow everyone to contribute to this effort. "The message we're getting out of this campaign will honour Riky's legacy of promoting positivity. We hope it benefits his fans and anyone struggling with mental health," stated Riky Rick's wife, Bianca Naidoo.