Zoleka Mandela was a brave and inspiring woman, who was the granddaughter of anti-apartheid icons Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. She was an author, an activist, and a cancer survivor, who shared her story and struggles with the world. She passed away on September 25, 2023, at the age of 43, after a long battle with metastatic cancer.Zoleka Mandela Death
Who Was Zoleka Mandela?
Zoleka Mandela was born on April 9, 1980, in Johannesburg, South Africa. She grew up with her parents, Zindzi Mandela and Oupa Johannes Mafanyana Seakamela, and her siblings, Zondwa, Zwelabo, and Zaziwe. She attended the University of Cape Town, where she studied psychology.
Zoleka had a difficult life, marked by trauma and tragedy. She lost her father to AIDS when she was 18. She struggled with drug and alcohol addiction for years. She suffered two miscarriages and lost her 13-year-old daughter Zenani in a car accident in 2010. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 and underwent a double mastectomy and chemotherapy.
Despite all the challenges, Zoleka never gave up hope. She overcame her addiction and became sober in 2011. She wrote her autobiography, When Hope Whispers, in 2013, where she revealed her personal journey and experiences. She became an ambassador for the Cansa Association of South Africa and the United Nations Population Fund. She advocated for breast cancer awareness, women’s rights, and HIV prevention.
Zoleka also found love and happiness with her husband, Thierry Bashala, whom she married in 2014. They had two children together, Zanyiwe and Zwelami.
How Did Zoleka Mandela Die?
Zoleka Mandela died on September 25, 2023, at the age of 43. The cause of her death was metastatic cancer that had spread to her hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain, and spinal cord. She had been admitted to hospital on September 18 for ongoing treatment.
Zoleka had been battling cancer since 2012, when she was first diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent a double mastectomy and chemotherapy and was declared cancer-free in 2014. However, in 2018, she announced that her cancer had returned and that it was incurable. She continued to receive treatment and remained positive and hopeful until the end.
She passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and friends. Her family released a statement confirming her death and thanking the medical team that took care of her.
How Did the Community React to Zoleka Mandela’s Death?
Zoleka Mandela’s death shocked and saddened the community of South Africa and beyond. Her family, friends, fans, celebrities, politicians, and activists expressed their grief and condolences on social media and in person. A candlelight vigil was held on September 26, at the Grace Family Church in Johannesburg, where hundreds of people gathered to honor her memory and pray for her family. A GoFundMe page was also set up to help her family with funeral expenses and other needs.
On September 27, Zoleka’s funeral service was held at the same church, where her pastor, family members, and friends delivered emotional eulogies and tributes. Her children sang a song that Zoleka loved and played a video montage of her life. Her husband thanked everyone for their support and asked for prayers for healing.
FAQ
What is metastatic cancer?
Metastatic cancer is a type of cancer that has spread from the original site to other parts of the body.
How can I help Zoleka Mandela’s family?
You can help Zoleka Mandela’s family by donating to their GoFundMe page, or by sending them cards, flowers, or messages of support.
When is Zoleka Mandela’s birthday?
Zoleka Mandela’s birthday is on April 9. She was born in 1980.
Where can I find more information about Zoleka Mandela?
You can find more information about Zoleka Mandela by reading her autobiography When Hope Whispers, or by watching this YouTube video.