Durban - She has been described as the girl next door – sweet, shy, homely and private – and Durban girl Shanice Stork, who married President Jacob Zuma’s son Duduzane last week, would like to keep it that way.
Stork’s family and friends have refused to divulge any information about the couple. It is believed they have been asked not to speak to the media by Stork and her husband.
“Shanice is a very private and shy person,” said a close family friend who attended the wedding. “I can’t help you, sorry.”
Since the nuptials, Stork’s Facebook wall has been filled with congratulatory messages.
One friend wrote: “Just the other day we were running on the road playing three tins! Now I see in the newspaper that you are married! So proud of the woman you have become Shanice. You looked so stunning on your special day. I wish you both many years of happiness together! Congratulations sweetie, your dad would be so proud!”
Stork was born on March 26, 1993 and attended Hillview Secondary School in Newlands East.
School principal Nadeem Ally described her as a “quiet pupil who never got into any trouble”.
Stork is the youngest of four children, with a sister and two brothers. Her father, an active community member, died a few years ago.
A prominent community member, who declined to be named, said Stork was a good girl who kept to herself.
“Her mother is a widow and her brothers are well known for their soccer skills. They play for Newlands United. They are a close-knit family. I remember Shanice as being well-mannered and respectful. I have never heard anything bad about her,” said the resident.
She said the community learnt Stork was marrying Duduzane after they held a large function at the Newlands East Community Hall a few weeks ago.
“President Zuma was there. It was a meeting of both families where gifts were presented. I believe they were introduced by a mutual friend. She is a nice girl who deserves every happiness,” the resident said.
Another resident who also declined to be named said the Stork family were “wonderful people”.
“Shanice cares about her community. I saw her at a few candlelight vigils held in the community.”
The couple were married at the New Apostolic Church, not far from Stork’s home in Slinger Place, Newlands East.
Last week’s ceremony was followed by a glitzy private reception at Fairmont Hotel in Zimbali, which was attended by a number of high-profile politicians, celebrities and business people.
Sunday Tribune