The Old and New South Africa in this amazing woman's journey with Nelson Mandela. Being from the United States we knew of Nelson Mandela but, unfortunately we didn't really know of who he really was and the sacrifices he made for his beautiful country and humanity. Until by chance we went to a lecture by Zelda La Grange.
On February 2, 2024, on our first sea day after leaving Cape Town, South Africa, the Cunard Queen Mary 2 Insight Lecture for the day was Zelda La Grange. At the time we did not know who she was beyond a small blurb in the Daily Program. She said she was a personal assistant to Nelson Mandela, worked closely with him for 19 years and that she wrote a best-selling book.
We thought it would be interesting to listen to her speak, but we never thought we would be moved to tears listening to the story of her relationship with Mr Mandela. She took us through the beginning of her journey as a very young, African female who was eager to find a job. Growing up supporting the rules of segregation she spoke of the emotional, life-changing events of working with Mr. Mandela and how it had her questioning everything she was taught. Throughout her career, Zelda proved to be a valuable assistant to Mr. Mandela. And When he retired, he chose her to remain working for him outside of office, which she did until his passing in December of 2013.
In 2014, Zelda published her international, best-selling memoir “Good Morning Mr. Mandela - A Young Woman, A president, A life-changing friendship” This is a perfect title for what she described in her lecture. We were very fortunate to have heard Zelda speak and it touched us both immensely. We very much look forward to reading her memoir.
8 сен 2024
