Zindziswa “Zindzi” Nobutho Mandela, born on December 23, 1960, in Soweto, was raised by her parents, Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. However, her childhood was not ordinary.
Just a year and a half following her birth, her father was arrested and sentenced to imprisonment at Robben Island, while her mother was restricted to Brandfort for ten years. Due to these circumstances, Zindzi missed out on a normal upbringing and education.
Despite the setbacks, Zindzi persevered and completed her secondary education in Swaziland. She then went on to receive her BA in law from the University of Cape Town in 1985.
Furthermore, Zindzi had the opportunity to read her father’s refusal speech to then-S.A Prime Minister, P.W. Botha. This speech spoke to the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs, even in the face of political oppression.
Zindzi’s experiences growing up have made her a fierce advocate for justice and equality. In her own way, she has contributed to the legacy of her parents and the fight against apartheid.
Zindzi’s unwavering dedication to the anti-apartheid movement is truly unparalleled. She courageously took on the role of underground operative for Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) and played an instrumental part in the Release Mandela Campaign.
Furthermore, as deputy president of the Soweto Youth Congress, Zindzi fearlessly fought for the rights of the oppressed.
Zindzi’s commitment to the cause continued long after apartheid was overthrown – she worked tirelessly alongside the Weilers/Orange Farm communities to establish the first ANC branch with struggle leader Walter Sisulu in the 1990s.
Even in her personal life, Zindzi’s actions were reflective of her values. She raised four children on her own, despite the challenges that came along with it.
Despite all of her accomplishments, it is truly unfortunate that Zindzi’s impressive track record has been overshadowed by a few controversial tweets.
She served South Africa as the ambassador to Denmark, and while in that position, she made a few remarks on the virtual entertainment stage that were taken out of context. It is unjust that her entire tenure as a diplomat be called into question because of these isolated incidents.
