NMCF REMEMBERS AMBASSADOR ZINDZI MANDELA

We awoke to a grey sun and a heavy cloud of grief, as we learned of the passing of our dearest Zindzi Mandela - one of our fiercest of champions. 

As trustee of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (the Fund), Zindzi served on our board with the greatest passion.

Our hearts are laden with sorrow as we try but fail to reconcile this loss that will leave an indelible mark on the Board, management and the staff of the Fund. 

Zindzi’s dedication to improving the lives of children on our continent was exemplary and an indivisible part of her staunch advocacy for human rights. 

Zindzi, belonged to all of us. As a historic figure in her own right, she wrote her name in the history books as an activist against the apartheid regime and a young fearless leader during Nelson Mandela’s years in prison. 

In our hard-won democracy she continued to serve our people representing the Republic of South Africa to the world, including in her role as Ambassador to Denmark before her untimely passing. 

We will always remember her fondly for her commitment to Madiba’s vision, our founder, to secure a better future for our children and youth. 

Today, we stand on her shoulders and her valuable guidance and selfless devotion to furthering the cause of the Fund. 

As we mark 25 years since our inception, there is no doubt in our minds, that our organisation would not be able to count its successes without her significant and immeasurable contribution. 

We could always rely on Zindzi to answer our calls, to lend her name to our work and to invite others to support our mission. 

It is deeply saddening that this loss occurred on the anniversary of another tragic day when Madiba’s son Thembekile died in a car accident in 1969. July is also a time when, Madiba’s legacy organisations, honour the memory of our founder during what is widely known as Mandela Month. 

We have been robbed of a chance to remember these moments and of a life that still had so much potential.
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Our prayers are with the Mandela family at this difficult time including her children she loved so dearly. Our thoughts are also with her friends and loved ones.

May her wonderful soul rest in peace. Lala ngoxolo beloved Zindzi. Lala kahle, Madlomo Sopitsho, Yem Yem, Bhomoyi, Ngqolomsila, Hala, Zondwa zintshaba zingazumenzanto, Vela Bambhentsele, Madiba odiba indonga zidibane!
 
With Love and Appreciation,
The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund