Nelson Mandela is a leader who inspired the new South Africa and who counts the nation as his kids. We bring you the true story of Madiba. WORDS: LAUREN GOLDMAN (@INDIBTTRFLY)
minutes WITH...
CHARLENE SMITH
Multiaward-winning journalist and author of Mandela: In Celebration of a Great Life and Robben Island – A Place of Inspiration: Mandela’s Prison Island
What was your impression of Mandela? When Mandela was released, I found a place for him to stay on his second night out of jail. “This man knew he was born to greatness,” I thought. That’s why I love him: he cares about the smallest and most insignificant among us, and makes us feel important. He sees the greatness that lies within us, if only we have the courage to allow it.
Out of the many influential people you’ve met, who sticks out in your mind? Apart from Madiba, former US president Bill Clinton, Kathleen Kennedy (daughter of Senator Robert F Kennedy), Senator Edward Kennedy and comedian Spike Milligan. Patricia de Lille was one of the most engaging people I wrote about. She’s humble and filled with life, and she cares passionately about people. She’s also a great party animal – few love to dance as much as Patricia and Madiba.
What quality makes you stand out as a journalist and biographer? There was a joke among some of the leadership of the United Democratic Front that I would be Madiba’s cook. I love being in the kitchen. It also helps to remember that the famous are people just like us. As journalists, we should leave our egos at the door and engage with them person-to-person.
NEWSFLASH!
Look out for the movie Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, based on the 1994 book of the same name, which is set for release this month.
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November 2013
– NELSON MANDELA
JUICE RECOMMENDS Robben Island – A Place of Inspiration: Mandela’s Prison Island By Charlene Smith
Robben Island is renowned as the place where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Charlene Smith gives readers a fuller experience of the island, from the fauna to the historical significance of the land since the days of Jan van Riebeeck.
In the Words of Nelson Mandela By Jennifer Crwys-Williams
In this unique collection of quotes, Mandela shares the thoughts and experiences that have influenced his ideology. Humorous and revealing, it allows us into the mind of one of the greatest leaders of all time.
The Children’s Madiba: The Life Story of Nelson Mandela By Sean Fraser
Introduce your kids to South Africa’s legendary champion. This illustrated book is about the life of Nelson Mandela, from growing up in the Eastern Cape to the day he became SA’s president.
PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY IMAGES
The legacy lives on
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