When hope whispers

This is a story about a woman; a story about her struggle. As the survivor of great tragedy; this is a story about triumph. Despite only being 33 years old, Zoleka Mandela has endured enough to fill several lifetimes. While she may be a member of South Africa’s own royal family, Zoleka has not led a sheltered life. She has travelled down paths which most would not dare; from the horror of losing two children within two years, to the shadowy journey through cocaine addiction and rehab, and being diagnosed with cancer. Though she was robbed of her children, stripped of her sobriety, and subject to a disease that necessitated a double mastectomy, Zoleka Mandela is not a victim. She is a survivor, and her story serves as testimony to the strength of the human spirit in fighting against life’s challenges. Zoleka is a living example of success in spite of overwhelming challenges. Zoleka is now clean and cancer-free. Zoleka Mandela had her last session of chemotherapy in April this year, and has been sober for 36 months. Through her story, it is impossible not to have faith in the good things in life, and possible to believe that anything is achievable. Zoleka’s book is an ideal read for those exposed to life’s challenges and traumas – from a mother who has had to deal with the loss of a child, or families who have had to endure the pains of cancer, or those who have dealt with the stress of addiction – it is a universal read exhibiting the power of healing.

Zoleka Mandela is the granddaughter of Nelson Mandela. She is cancer free and has has been sober for three years.