Lynn Forbes, the mother of the late South African rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes, is remembering and celebrating her son as he would have turned 38 this year. Although time has passed since his tragic death, the love, pride and memories she carries remain strong. AKA was fatally shot in Durban on February 10, 2023, a moment that shocked South Africa and left a deep mark on the music industry and his fans.
As the anniversary of his birthday arrives, Lynn Forbes reflects on the man her son was beyond the fame, success and public image. She speaks not only as the mother of a global music star, but as a parent who watched her child grow, dream and stay true to himself even as his life changed dramatically.
OK Mzansi Magazine spoke to Lynn Forbes as her late son turns 38 and about what she misses most about Kiernan Forbes. Her words paint a picture of a man who never lost touch with who he truly was, no matter how big his career became.
When asked what parts of AKA never changed, Lynn shared heartfelt memories that show the values her son held close throughout his life. She said: “His love for home never changed. No matter where he was in the world, he always came back to his roots, to his family, to the people who knew him before the fame.”
This deep connection to home and family was something that grounded AKA, even while he travelled the world and performed on some of the biggest stages. Despite international success, he remained closely tied to the people and places that shaped him.
Lynn also spoke about his personality and mindset, saying: “His curiosity never changed either. He was always thinking, always questioning, always wanting to understand life more deeply.”
She added that his playful spirit never faded: “And his sense of humour … that stayed. He could still be playful, still be a boy at heart, even while carrying the weight of being a public figure.”
Lynn ended by describing her son as someone who always aimed for greatness, saying: “And he was excellence personified… that never changed … that’s why he will live in his music forever.”
As fans continue to celebrate AKA’s legacy, Lynn Forbes’ words remind the public that behind the icon was a son who loved deeply, laughed freely and stayed true to himself. His music, values and spirit continue to live on.
