Tersia died in a car accident outside Rustenburg this past Thursday.
“Tersia excelled academically and in August 2015, she received her qualifications as an Advocate of the High Court. She possessed a sharp legal mind, a deep sense of justice, and a passion for standing up for what was right. These qualities would later become the hallmark of her public service and political career,” Bosman Grobler, DA caucus leader in the Mpumalanga Legislature says.
She joined the Democratic Alliance in 2014, and quickly distinguished herself through her dedication, work ethic, and genuine desire to serve her community.
ALSO READ: Mpumalanga Legislature adopts DA motion to help NGOs obtain compliance certificates
In 2016, she was elected as a ward councillor in the City of Mbombela, where she faithfully served her constituents with humility and determination. During her time as councillor, she served on various portfolio committees and also became the chief whip of the DA in 2018.
“In Mbombela, she always ensured that the interests of residents remained at the forefront of every decision she made. She believed that public office was a position of service rather than privilege and approached every responsibility with professionalism and sincerity.”
“In Mbombela, she always ensured that the interests of residents remained at the forefront of every decision she made. She believed that public office was a position of service rather than privilege and approached every responsibility with professionalism and sincerity.”
In 2024, Tersia was elected as a member of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, where she continued her commitment to accountable governance and public oversight. She served on the portfolio committee on Agriculture, Rural Development and Land Affairs, where she quickly earned the respect of colleagues and officials alike.
ALSO READ: Sonell Joubert turns five months behind bars into a tsunami of love for women in prison
“Tersia was known for her meticulous approach to her work. Once she identified an issue of public concern, she would pursue it with unwavering determination. She refused to accept superficial answers and would thoroughly research every fact, examine every angle, and ensure that every possible question had been asked before reaching a conclusion. Her commitment to accountability and oversight made her a formidable member of the legislature and, at times, a thorn in the side of the MEC. She was fearless in holding the executive accountable, always driven by the interests of the people she served rather than political convenience,” says Grobler.
“Tersia leaves behind a legacy of principled leadership, dedicated public service and unwavering commitment to justice. Her life reminds us that true leadership is measured not by titles held, but by lives touched, communities served and the courage to stand for what is right.”
Beyond the legislature, Tersia also served as the constituency head for the Bushbuckridge Constituency. In this role she demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the Democratic Alliance’s activists, volunteers, councillors and local structures. She travelled extensively, invested countless hours in supporting members, mentoring leaders and strengthening party structures throughout the constituency. She believed that strong communities are built by empowered people, and she worked tirelessly to grow and develop the organisation she loved.
“Those who had the privilege of knowing Tersia will remember not only her remarkable work ethic, but also her gentle nature. She possessed a humble spirit, a kind heart and a quiet strength that drew people to her. She treated everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of their position or background. Her warmth, compassion and willingness to listen made her a trusted colleague, loyal friend and respected leader.
“Tersia leaves behind a legacy of principled leadership, dedicated public service and unwavering commitment to justice. Her life reminds us that true leadership is measured not by titles held, but by lives touched, communities served and the courage to stand for what is right.
“She will be deeply and dearly missed by her family, friends, colleagues, fellow public representatives, and the many people whose lives she impacted. Her memory will continue to inspire us to serve with integrity, compassion and courage,” Grobler concluded.
