AFTER a false start two weeks ago, Siyabakhumbula - We Remember - Awards finally honoured the many South Africans from all walks of life who had touched people in a profound way, thus leaving a lasting legacy.

Sports people, musicians, artists, actors, journalists, educators were among those honoured.

South Africans had it tough during apartheid, yet it never stifled their creativity. Take soccer, for instance. It unleashed stars like Patrick "Ace" Ntsoelengoe, whose prowess in the field is still unparalleled.

Today Ntsoelengoe is not only a legend here at home who has inspired generations, but takes his place among soccer icons of the world after his induction into the Hall of Fame.

Professor Thamsanqa Kambule, with three honorary doctorates, helped a lot of students with their maths and science challenges. Thanks to his initiative, many students went on to do well, thus elevating their communities and making them proud.

It's a pity that none of these achievers have seen fit to come out and thank the good prof.

The Sono and Morewa names have been synonymous with the beautiful game of soccer. But nobody had ever thought of thanking them for their valuable contributions.

So, to have the family come forward to have one of their own thanked was a great feat. People never think beyond the glare of the spotlight, the many bickering sessions and the missed school meetings while the chosen few pursue their careers.

It's a pity about the sacrifices that no one talks about, the sacrifices that have led to numerous divorces and women becoming alcoholics.

Instead of trying to understand, people will condemn the poor woman for having everything and still failing without really finding out what happened.

Alfred Nokwe and Henry Cele both contributed a lot to entertainment in their own ways. Nokwe acted and roped in his family including his wife and children. They in turn groomed a lot of people who are now stars in their own right.

As for Cele, there was no one to rival his portrayal of Shaka even in his mature years. Yet he was a forgotten man who ended up coming to Joburg to receive a Golden Award only to find that he did not have taxi fare. Thanks to Bob Mabena and friends for helping him out.

It was good for Paul Ndlovu to finally strike it rich, standing on the verge of changing his family fortune and dying before realising that. Even more tragic for youngsters not learning a lot from legends like Sam "Bra Darkie" Williams and Ndaba "Mshefane" Mhlongo, whose comedy was effortless and flowing.

Today their "skiet en donder" movies are just as popular as they were all those years ago.

We were upset when Mzwakhe Mbuli - the brains behind the awards - cancelled two weeks ago. It was therefore heartening to hear the people saying the awards were worth the wait.

Everything from the music to the food turned out great in spite the freezing winter chill.

There were many groups, with Felicia Marion and Thoko Ndlozi giving a wonderful rendition of Paradiseas they remembered their fallen colleague Anneline Malebo.

I am glad about the commitment of those who made the burdens in our lives seem lighter.

Thank God that people unanimously agreed that the Siyabakhumbula Awards were a million times better than the South African Music Awards, or kanjani ...