‘What a bright young man he was’: South Africa mourns Mikhail Hendricks passing

Mikhail Hendricks, a Stellenbosch University student who found Internet fame in 2013, has unexpectedly passed away at 22.

In June 2013, Hendricks stood behind then-US President Barack Obama during his speech at the University of Cape Town when he won hearts with his massive smile and enthusiasm to be there.

Hendricks was an immediate hit, and Twitter welcomed him with open arms.

@katierazz what a lovely guy Mikhail. Hope he achieves his dreams. Made my day #redtieguy

— Red (@Pebble8) July 1, 2013

I LOVE the #redtieguy ~ all the best Mikhail! Nice to see table mountain as well.

— Candace Brooke (@cbw179) July 1, 2013

Ah #redtieguy is fantastic. I love him. What a peach.

— Syd Moore (@SydMoore1) July 1, 2013

#redtieguy in #southafrica on #obama‘s tour on #channel4news lovely young man.he makes you #smile

— KC (@Kagsy) July 1, 2013

According to The Cape Times, Hendricks was raised by his grandmother in Mitchells Plain before being taken in by high school teacher Aubrey van Breda. She asserts that Hendricks was very aware of Obama and his background, and was inspired by him to take up law.

A few months after his viral hit, Hendricks wrote about the South African constitution in the Daily Maverick. He encouraged citizens to get involved with the constitution made to protect them.

“For me, the Constitution contains the promissory message of a non-racist, non-sexist and just democratic society that works for us all. It is this message of hope of a perfect democratic republic that is found within the Constitution, which keeps my hopes alive for a better South Africa,” he wrote.

As a university student, Hendricks was a board member for the Constitutional Literacy and Services Initiative, an NPO that provides training for law students from varying law schools. He was also expected at the South Africa-Washington International Program in Washington D.C. next month.

Social media users have expressed sadness for the passing of a young man who brought a brief moment of light to the difficult world of politics.

I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Michael’s passing. He was such a good soul. Always so happy and cheerful .So open.#RedTieGuy

— Kile Wotshela (@Kile_Wotshela) May 19, 2017

So tragic. I met Mikhail during his stint as a job shadow. What a bright young man he was. #redtieguy https://t.co/rpcondKG0J

— Gasant Abarder (@GasantAbarder) May 22, 2017

Rest In Peace #Redtieguy

After reading Mikhail Hendricks reasoning for becoming a lawyer, I’ve realized SA is in good hands. #Inspiring

— I.M.Legend (@IMLegen30085210) May 20, 2017