Across Boundaries: The Journey of a South African Woman Leader

by Mamphela Ramphele, Johnnetta B. Cole (Foreword)

"Survival," writes Mamphela Ramphele, "is a stronger force than the fear of offending others." Born black and female in apartheid-ruled South Africa, Ramphele went on to become one of the most distinguished women on the African continent—a prominent activist, medical doctor, anthropologist, teacher, university leader, as well as a mother to two sons. Across Boundaries chronicles Ramphele's inspiring journey, and reveals the staggering personal losses that coexisted with her astonishing political and professional achievements.

In addition to recounting the fascinating and often gripping events of her life, she describes the personal side of her experiences—her early struggles to maintain dignity and hope in a world that devalued both black people and women; her battles against despair, especially after the murder of her colleague and lover Steven Biko and the death of her third child in infancy; her mistakes and regrets, as well as her triumphs.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Biography, Africa, South Africa

256 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1997

About the author

Mamphela Ramphele is a leading South African academic, businesswoman, medical doctor and former anti-apartheid activist. She is a trustee of the Nelson Mandela and Steve Biko Foundations and Founder of the Citizens Movement.

She is the current leader of Agang, a developing political party.