Photographer and content creator Baba Talisha has moved many online with a touching tribute dedicated to his father, Raphael Lukole, who recently retired after an impressive 41-year teaching career.
In a deeply emotional social media post, Baba Talisha—known for celebrating family milestones with passion—honoured his father’s lifelong commitment to education and fatherhood. He described his dad not just as a parent, but as a tireless hero who shaped generations of students and raised his children through sacrifice and love.
“Today, my hero hangs up his chalk after over 41 years of teaching,” he wrote. “Mr. Raphael Lukole — not just a father, but a fighter, a provider, a builder of futures. From primary to secondary, from classroom to office, you served with discipline, love, and grace as a senior head teacher.”
He went on to express immense gratitude for the selflessness his father displayed while raising their family. Baba Talisha recounted how, even when times were hard, his father never hesitated to put their needs first. “You gave us everything, even when you had nothing. You paid our school fees with your last coin, made sacrifices we’ll never fully understand, and even when your health almost failed, you kept going. You fought battles in silence just so we could live in peace.”
He concluded the heartfelt message with a touching note of pride and love: “Dad, I’m proud of you. I love you beyond words. You’ve touched thousands of lives, but none more deeply than your children’s. Happy retirement, Mr. Lukole. You did it.”
In a sweet gesture, he called on his followers and fans to help make his father’s retirement extra special by sending M-Pesa gifts. He shared his father’s number publicly, asking anyone who felt moved by the story to surprise him with a token of appreciation.
The online community responded with overwhelming support, flooding the comment section with warm messages celebrating the retired educator. Many praised Mr. Lukole’s legacy and sent him their blessings for a peaceful and joyful retirement. Others acknowledged the crucial role teachers like him play in shaping society, calling him an unsung hero.
One comment read, “Happy retirement, Mwalimu, and thank you for touching hearts, teaching minds, and transforming lives.” Another added, “He deserves every blessing coming his way. This is a beautiful tribute, Baba T.”
A few even added a humorous twist, jokingly asking if they could join the family now that the retired teacher had access to retirement benefits.
The celebration of Mr. Lukole’s retirement comes shortly after another touching family moment: Baba Talisha’s daughter, Talisha Truphena, paid tribute to her late mother while also showing appreciation for her stepmother. The emotional post was shared following a private family celebration, where Talisha welcomed a new baby brother born to her father and his current partner.
In her message, Talisha expressed deep admiration for the woman who stepped in after her mother’s passing, noting the strength and support she has received from both her late mum and her stepmother. She called the moment bittersweet but filled with gratitude and healing.
As the family continues to honour one another in powerful and public ways, their story is a reminder of the deep impact parents have, both in the home and in the community. Baba Talisha’s father retires not just as a teacher, but as a legacy builder—leaving behind decades of memories, lessons, and love.
