South Africans are coming together to pay their tributes to the indomitable spirit of Zoleka Mandela, a true cancer warrior who left this world on Monday, September 25, at the age of 43.
Zoleka, renowned author and activist, was the granddaughter of the late South African former president, Nelson Mandela, and the iconic ANC stalwart, Winnie Madikizela Mandela.
ALSO ON TSZ MZANSI: Zoleka Mandela, Author of ‘When Hope Whispers,’ Dies At 43 (See Statement)
In August of the previous year, Zoleka revealed the daunting news of her cancer diagnosis, which had spread to her lungs, liver, ribs, spinal cord, and hips.
This was a battle she faced with unwavering determination after previously conquering breast cancer twice.
Zoleka leaves behind a legacy of resilience and strength that continues to inspire many. Notably, she overcame breast cancer twice and shared her remarkable journey in her 2013 biography, “When Hope Whispers.”
In the book, she courageously revealed her struggles with drug addiction and the physical and sexual abuse she endured as a child and teenager.
Her life was marked by profound challenges, including the tragic loss of her eldest daughter, Zenani, in a car accident in 2010, followed by the passing of her infant son, Zenawe, who was born prematurely just a year later.
Netizens have been pouring out their admiration for Zoleka’s unwavering determination. Her story served as a testament to the power of resilience and the refusal to surrender, even in the face of life’s harshest trials.
Zoleka Mandela was a fighter, motivated a lot of people to never give up in life.
Condolences to family and friends.
Akuhlanga Lungehlanga #RIPZolekaMandela pic.twitter.com/dDo6fXoRPc— Be Humble. 🇿🇦 (@EzamaCirha) September 26, 2023
“Zoleka Mandela fought so much. She instilled hope in most of us & taught us not to ever give up even if the end is near.
What an inspiration she was. I will definitely remember her resilience and gratitude. May her soul rest in peace. Condolences to the friends and families,” wrote @innomatijane on social media.
Zoleka Mandela fought so much. She instilled hope in most of us & taught us not to ever give up even if the end is near. What an inspiration she was. I will definitely remember her resilience and gratitude. May her soul rest in peace. Condolences to the friends and families. 🤍🕊️
— Inno Matijane (@innomatijane) September 26, 2023
“Zoleka Mandela’s story was so gruesome. She was in a constant battle for most of her life.
ALSO ON TSZ MZANSI: Zoleka Mandela Opens Up About Her Lung Condition, Disclosing The Presence Of Blood Clots And Fibrosis (Video)
Fighting an addiction, losing her daughter to a drunk driver, fighting cancer, only for the cancer to come back. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” shared @somuhleomuhle.
Zoleka Mandela’s story was so gruesome. She was in constant battle for most of her life. Fighting an addiction, losing her daughter to a drunk driver, fighting cancer, only for the cancer to come back. May her soul rest in eternal peace. 💔
— Zuleika (@somuhleomuhle) September 26, 2023
@_@LeratomabuzaM paid tribute, saying, “Rest In Peace Zoleka Mandela 💔🙏 You really fought my love. God knows you gave it your all to be alive.
You Lived, Cared & Loved. Your children lost a loving compassionate Mom, but they gained a Guardian Angel.”
“Mothers don’t fear death. Their greatest fear is leaving their children in this world, knowing no one will love them like they do”
Rest in Peace Zoleka Mandela. You fought till the end. Strength to your babies and family 🕊️🕊️🖤 pic.twitter.com/PbES4WbAvw
— MaMhlanga Nompumelelo (@Mpumiln) September 26, 2023
