If there is one woman who is the ultimate struggle veteran for me, it’s Mama Winnie undoubtedly. This ageless beauty, who just celebrated her 81st birthday recently, is often overshadowed when it comes to the acknowledgements of people who were instrumental in liberating our beautiful country from the apartheid atrocities.

This woman is a pillar of strength to all who look up to her. Her contributions to the struggle, raising her daughters single-handedly during trying times and being Madiba’s pillar while improsoned are a few of the many traits that make her the nation’s darling. A fighter, mother, disciplinarian and decisive warrior who has captured our hearts.

I took some time to celebrate this wonderful being, a national icon, during Day 27 of my women’s month appreciation series, wishing her good health and strength. I appreciate her for all her efforts towards the liberation that someone who looks like me currently enjoys in this country which will never go unnoticed.

Day 27 of my Women’s Month Appreciation series and today I pay my special acknowledgements to this ageless struggle warrior of the nation. I simply watch this video over and over again and get moved by her power, bravery and no-nonsense approach towards the many wrong acts done during a very dark time in our country.

A woman appropriately referred to as the ‘Mother of the nation’ for her contributions towards the struggle.

A fierce woman, and activist who spoke tough and bold against the apartheid atrocities. A social worker and an intellectual who had a close affiliation and connection to the people. Experienced her own fair share of hardships, torture, detainment and banishment for her political activities.

Played a very critical role in taking care of her household and raising her daughters alone while Mandela was imprisoned. She made sure that the movement struggle does not die outside while Madiba was in bars. Supported Mandela, gave him something to fight for, updated him on the happenings outside and was his pillar as a result.

We often underestimate the role that this woman played in the realization of the democratic state that we currently see ourselves in today. What a blessing to have this woman still with us as we battle to find our feet as a democratic country.

I celebrate this icon for her contributions and I still feel that we were and are robbed of her presidency in this democracy as her leadership qualities are not to be doubted. May you have good health for the years ahead of you and we are thankful to still have you with us.

I find it not surprising that there are many international stars that have tried with fail to potray her in the many struggle movies out there because there simply can only be one Winnie Mandela.

A very happy women’s month to you!

#MamaWinnieMadikizelaMandela