Rachel Kolisi's heartfelt tribute as daughter Liphelo joins the matric class of 2026

Rachel Kolisi is a proud parent, beaming with joy as her eldest daughter, Liphelo (Phelo) Madlingozi, embarks on her journey into the matric class of 2026.

In a heartfelt post on her Instagram account, Kolisi expressed her excitement about her daughter entering this significant phase of her education.

She shared several pictures from Liphelo’s school induction for the grade 11s, who will soon be part of the upcoming matric class.

As the 2025 matric exams officially commenced this week for learners across South Africa, Rachel reflected on the bittersweet nature of this milestone.

"Induction day for my girl 😭 can’t believe we’re at matric already; I remember her starting grade 1 like it was yesterday! 🥹❤️ So proud of you," she wrote in her post.

Netizens joined in to offer their congratulations and support for both Phelo and Rachel.

Comments included:

@dewafrica said: "Rachel and her eldest daughter ❤️ you did that, Mama 🙏🏽 congratulations to your family."

While @sangajam said: "You’ve done so well, mama ❤️."

Another user, @gabonewejustice, said: "Stay calm, young lady, stay focused, and trust your brilliant mind. Best of luck 👌😍🙌."

And @pakama54 said: "@rachelkolisi, what an inspiring woman. Well done, mama, a job well done."

Rachel and Siya Kolisi adopted Siya's siblings, Liyema and Liphelo, in 2014 after the passing of their mother.

This loving decision came after the children had spent time in foster care.

In October 2024, the couple shocked many when they announced their divorce.

However, despite this change, Rachel and Phelo have maintained a close mother-daughter bond.

In August 2025, Phelo celebrated her 18th birthday, marking another significant milestone.

Rachel shared a glimpse of the celebration on Instagram, where the family enjoyed a meal at a sushi restaurant in Cape Town on Wednesday, August 13.

Her social media tribute featured a variety of heartfelt pictures, accompanied by the caption: "Happy birthday @liphelo.madlingozi 🥹❤️ I love you."

Among the snapshots was a touching moment of Rachel embracing Liphelo in a warm hug, a mouthwatering plate of sushi, and an adorable video capturing the moment Liphelo cut into her birthday cake.

One of the most cherished images was a handmade card, likely crafted by Rachel and Siya's youngest child, Keziah, which read: "Happy birthday, Phelo. Roses are red, violets are blue, happy birthday to you."