Sun Goddess Founder Vanya Mangaliso’s Cause of Death Revealed as Mzansi Mourns Fashion Pioneer
The cause of death of acclaimed South African designer Vanya Mangaliso has been confirmed by her husband, who revealed she lost her battle with cancer.
Mangaliso, the creative force behind the luxury fashion and lifestyle brand Sun Goddess, passed away peacefully on Thursday, 26 June 2025. She was 53 years old.
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Emotional Tribute from Her Husband
Her husband, Thando Mangaliso, shared the devastating news in a heartfelt Instagram post.
“Today is the saddest day of my life. My Minty lost her battle with cancer and passed away in my arms yesterday afternoon. Our family and children remain our greatest achievement. I’m shattered and I have my children to comfort me. I thank God for giving me my wife,” he wrote.
Brand Confirms Her Passing
The Sun Goddess brand, which Vanya co-founded and led as Creative Director, also confirmed her death in an official statement released on Friday, 27 June 2025.
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Vanya Mangaliso, a renowned designer and Creative Director of the Afrochic Heritage fashion brand, Sun Goddess. She passed away peacefully on Thursday, 26 June 2025, at the age of 53, surrounded by loved ones,” the statement read.
Mzansi Mourns a Fashion Trailblazer
The news has triggered an outpouring of grief across South Africa. Fans, fellow designers, and public figures flooded social media with messages of condolence and tributes to her legacy.
Vanya Mangaliso was widely celebrated for her work preserving and elevating African heritage through contemporary fashion, leaving behind an enduring influence on the industry.
Here are some of the condolence messages:
@MNyezile;
This is sad news, I was wondering just the other day why they are quiet. May her soul rest in eternal peace & may her loved ones be comforted during this difficult time
@Mbali_Ndlela;
Rest in peace Vanya Mangaliso. Your legacy lives on through Sun Goddess and the many South African designers who paged through fashion magazines, watched Top Billing and Selimathunzi, and saw a designer that shared our heritage through fashion. You paved the way Queen.👑
@NdlovuLawrence;
Saddened by the passing on of this trail blazing designer #Vanya Mangaliso. I remember with fond memories how they made us fall in love with ourselves. I use to go to the zone just to see what Stoned Cherrie and Sun Goddess had. Rest now darling. Condolences to her family.