‘Mother of a Nation’ Winnie Madikizela-Mandela dies at age 81

It comes with great sorrow that we’ve learnt of ‘Mother of a Nation’, anti-apartheid activist, and all-round badass woman, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela’s death today. According to a family spokesperson, Madikizela-Mandela, age 81, passed away peacefully in Milpark Hospital, Johannesburg, early this morning.

South African and international stars have begun to take to social media to pay tribute to a woman who has touched us all so deeply.

I adored you! #ripwinniemandela

A post shared by Leanne Manas(@leannemanas) on Apr 2, 2018 at 7:53am PDT

Sad to hear of the passing of Winnie Mandela, a true warrior and Queen. She visited and spoke at NAN’s House of Justice in 2000. May she rest in POWER! #RIPWinnieMandela

A post shared by Rev. Al Sharpton(@real_sharpton) on Apr 2, 2018 at 8:25am PDT

I’ve met many many well-known people and very few leave me star-struck. Mam’ Winnie was one of them (in 2014). I think I managed a hello and how are you. That’s it. 🙈 She was lovely and warm. I’m sure there are many who will be more eloquent in the coming days about her life and legacy. I just want to say thank you for your unfailing, unwavering courage of always speaking your truth – no matter what it cost you. 🙏🏽💔 #RIPWinnieMandela #Icon #Leader #Legend

A post shared by Melanie Bala(@melzinbala) on Apr 2, 2018 at 8:32am PDT

Rest in peace Mam Winnie, you will be missed; 1936-2018.

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