Who Is Winnie Madikizela-Mandela? Age, Biography and Wiki
Winnie Madikizela-Mandela would be 89 years old in 2025. Her legacy as a stalwart in the fight against apartheid is well-documented in history. Throughout her life, she held various roles, from being an influential political figure to a dedicated activist. She became a member of the African National Congress and served as the Minister of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology in South Africa. Her life story is intricately tied to her marriage to Nelson Mandela, with whom she weathered both storms of personal and political tumult.
| Occupation | Politician |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 26, 1936 |
| Age | 81 Years |
| Birth Place | Mbizana, Cape Province, Union of South Africa |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | South Africa |
| Date of death | 2 April, 2018 |
| Died Place | Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa |
Popularity
Winnie Madikizela-Mandela's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Details about Winnie’s physical stature include:
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
- Weight: Varies throughout different periods of her life, particularly in her activism years.
- Body Measurements: While exact numbers are not publicly available, Winnie was known for her distinctive presence, often noted for her stylish appearance.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Winnie Madikizela-Mandela was married to Nelson Mandela from 1958 until their separation in 1992 and divorce in 1996. The couple had two daughters, Zenani and Zindzi, who carry on their mother's legacy and activism in their own right.
After her divorce, Winnie maintained a low profile about her personal relationships. While there were rumors and speculations about her dating life, she was primarily focused on her political and social advocacy.
Winnie Nomzamo Madikizela-Mandela (born Nomzamo Winifred Zanyiwe Madikizela; 26 September 1936 – 2 April 2018), also known as Winnie Mandela, was a South African politician and anti-apartheid activist, second wife of Nelson Mandela and convicted kidnapper and fraudster.
During her political career, she served as a Member of Parliament from 1994 to 2003, and from 2009 until her death, and was a deputy minister of arts and culture from 1994 to 1996. A member of the African National Congress (ANC) political party, she served on the ANC's National Executive Committee and headed its Women's League.
Madikizela-Mandela was known to her supporters as the "Mother of the Nation".
Net Worth and Salary
While the exact net worth of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela at the time of her death is estimated around $10 million, much of it derived from her decade-long political career and various activities. Her financial standing was significantly influenced by her public engagements, appearances, and investment in activism-related projects.
Career, Business and Investments
Winnie's career spanned various spheres, from political activism to public service. She earned a reputation as a fierce advocate for social change, focusing on women’s rights, anti-racism, and grassroots community initiatives. She was instrumental in mobilizing support for Nelson Mandela’s release from prison, thus contributing to the end of apartheid.
In addition to her political career, Winnie was also involved in several business ventures, including fashion and media. These endeavors not only provided her with financial stability but also allowed her to promote her activist ideals.
She held a number of jobs in various parts of what was then the Bantustan of Transkei; including with the Transkei government, living at various points of time at Bizana, Shawbury and Johannesburg. Her first job was as a social worker at Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto.
Social Network
Winnie Madikizela-Mandela was active on various social media platforms, often using them to engage with her supporters and share her views. Her presence continues to resonate on platforms like Facebook and Twitter where her legacy is honored by admirers and those inspired by her past work. Fans can find tributes and important updates concerning the ongoing discourse around her influence in South African politics and activism.
Nelson Mandela was released from prison on 11 February 1990, and the couple separated in 1992; their divorce was finalised in March 1996. She visited him during his final illness. As a senior ANC figure, she took part in the post-apartheid ANC government, although she was dismissed from her post amid allegations of corruption.
In 2003, Madikizela-Mandela was convicted of theft and fraud, and she temporarily withdrew from active politics before returning several years later. Her biography Winnie Mandela: A life was written by Anné Mariè du Preez Bezdrob and published in 2003.
Education
Winnie Madikizela-Mandela obtained her degree in social work from the University of the Witwatersrand, which equipped her with the necessary skills to work closely with marginalized communities. Her educational background played a crucial role in shaping her strategies and approaches as a social activist.
Though Winnie Madikizela-Mandela is no longer with us, her contributions to the fight for justice and equality remain a potent source of inspiration for many engaged in similar struggles around the world. Her legacy continues to be celebrated and analyzed, ensuring that she will always be remembered as an iconic figure in the annals of history.
Upon leaving school, she went to Johannesburg to study social work at the Jan Hofmeyr School of Social Work. She earned a degree in social work in 1956, and decades later earned a bachelor's degree in international relations from the University of the Witwatersrand.
