It Always Seems Impossible

This book is a journey of triumph and setback, of building something good in a world that doesn’t always welcome it. It’s about allies and adversaries, mentors and obstacles. Above all, it’s a story driven by social justice and the power of education to change lives and the resilience it takes to protect that power when it’s most at risk. A fascinating South African memoir that shares a story of hope and resilience. 

It Always Seems Impossible features a glowing foreword from The Nelson Mandela Foundation. The book is supported by an extensive publicity campaign and strong corporate backing. It has already attracted interest from business leaders, philanthropists and global organisations.

At school, James Urdang a troublemaking underachiever.  Diagnosed with ADHD and Dyslexia at an early age, few could have imagined he’d go on to found Education Africa, an organisation that has helped educate thousands of young black South Africans.

Supported and mentored by Walter Sisulu, Nelson Mandela and Dr. Aggrey Klaaste − former Editor-in-Chief of The Sowetan - who became the organisation’s first chairman in 1992 − James, driven by determination and sheer audacity made his dream a reality. Until one day it all came crashing down as he faced a gruelling battle to save his NPO, Education Africa, from a hostile takeover by executives from a global financial institution.

Supported and mentored by Walter Sisulu, Nelson Mandela and

Dr. Aggrey Klaaste − former Editor-in-Chief of The Sowetan - who became the organisation’s first chairman in 1992 − James, driven by determination and sheer audacity made his dream a reality. Until one day it all came crashing down as he faced a gruelling battle to save his NPO, Education Africa, from a hostile takeover by executives from a global financial institution.

 

James Urdang is an international award-winning humanitarian, a social entrepreneur and powerful motivational speaker. As CEO and founder of Education Africa, he has dedicated more than three decades of his life to bring about real, positive and meaningful change to the lives of disadvantaged Africans. James was honoured to have been asked to speak at the funeral of the late Chris Hani and has worked closely with leaders in many fields over the years, most notably with Nelson Mandela.