Celebrities pay tribute to Zoleka Mandela - "You fought so hard"

Some of South Africa's biggest celebrities are paying tribute to Zoleka Mandela in the wake of her passing.

Zoleka passed away on Monday, September 25, after battling metastatic cancer to the hip, lung, liver, pelvis, brain, and spinal cord.  

The 43-year-old survived breast cancer twice before revealing in August 2022 that the disease had spread to other parts of her body. 

Her biggest worry at the time was telling her children that she was dying.  

"How do I tell them that this time around, I may not get to live my life as a survivor? How do I tell them everything will be okay when it’s not? I’m dying … I don’t want to die," she wrote on Instagram at the time. 

Read more about her heartbreaking post here: Zoleka Mandela: 'I’m dying… I don’t want to die'

Zoleka is the granddaughter of Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. Her parents are the late Zindzi Mandela and Oupa MJ Seakamela. 

Zoleka died one day before Ma Winnie's birthday, which the late struggle hero would have celebrated on Tuesday, September 26. 

The Nelson Mandela Foundation extended its heartfelt condolences to Zoleka's family. 

"Zoleka was a tireless activist for healthcare and justice. Her work in raising awareness about cancer prevention and her unwavering commitment to breaking down the stigma surrounding the disease will continue to inspire us all... Hamba kahle Zoleka, we will remember you," the foundation said in a statement. 

ALSO READ:  Ayanda Thabethe: 'Zoleka Mandela's post really broke my heart'

Several celebrities took to social media to remember the author and mother of six. 

"May your soul rest in peace. You fought the good fight well! God bless you and your family always," Ayanda Thabethe wrote on her Instagram Story. 

Thuli Madonsela wrote on X (Twitter): "Gone too soon Zoleka Mandela joining her peerless grandmother Winnie Madikizela Mandela and mother Zinzi Mandela. She fought very hard and made a huge difference in people’s lives. Hearfelt condolences to the children, broader family, colleagues and friends. #RIPZolekaMandela."

Singer Thandiswa Mazwai wrote: "She fought her cancer so bravely and suffered so many tragedies. Rest in peace Zoleka. Today as we commemorate your grandmother's birthday we release you into your ancestor's loving arms. Lala ngoxolo."

Carol Ofori also paid tribute to Zoleka. The East Coast Radio presenter said she has always admired how Zoleka shared her cancer journey with the world.

Several stars left messages of condolences in the comments section of an Instagram post that Zoleka's family shared about her passing. 

"What a great reunion it’s gonna be on the other side. With mama Gogo mkhulu and daughter. It’s hits hard here on earth but it’s a different feeling on the other side," Somizi Mhlongo wrote. 

Jennifer Bala commented: "My dear ZoZo, I am incredibly heartbroken for you and your babies right now. Literally in tears! You were one of the bravest people I know and you inspired many people on your life’s journey of hope. I pray for God’s grace and comfort for your kids…rest in heavenly peace."

ALSO READ: Four SA celebrities who lost their battle with cancer in 2023

Main image credit: Zoleka Mandela/Instagram

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