Zelda la Grange speaks about her life with Madiba
High-profile guest speakers addressed businesswomen at the ZCCI Businesswomen's Conference.
AS Zululanders prepared to commemorate Freedom Day, Nelson Mandela’s former secretary and spokesperson for the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Zelda la Grange, reminded local businesswomen of important life lessons she learned from the father of our nation.
She shared her life story with attendees at the ZCCI Businesswomen’s conference held at the Umfolozi Casino Resort yesterday.
Having served Madiba in different capacities, her unique outlook on life, inspired by one of the greatest statesmen of our time, touched many hearts.
‘I grew up oblivious of my surroundings and knew nothing about my country’s history,’ said La Grange .
‘When I eventually found myself standing in front of the man I was taught to despise while growing up, I broke down in tears.’
Her first meeting with Mandela was a turning point in her life and from that moment, an abundance of precious memories were built up over nearly two decades.
Her relationship with Madiba grew over time and he soon played a much more important role in her life. ‘He was like a grandfather to me.’
Although La Grange sacrificed marriage and building a family, she said she would never have replaced the years she spent with him.
‘Madiba taught me three lessons that I will never forget – discipline, respect and integrity.
‘The way you approach a person is the way they will treat you, and this was very important to him.’
Her close relationship with Madiba continued until his last days and her involvement with the Nelson Mandela Foundation is still ongoing.
Adding to the inspirational theme, Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Hirsch’s, Margaret Hirsch, touched on her journey from early struggle to building an iconic multi-million rand company.
‘There is nothing wrong with having a millionaire mind,’ said Hirsch. ‘Hard work and perseverance is why my business has grown from strength to strength.’
She touched on a few of her many success stories, including her initiative ‘Girls With Dignity’.
‘It’s not about where you come from, it’s about where you want to go.’
She has also assisted in producing a large number of entrepreneurs who have successfully launched themselves in the business industry, despite coming from difficult backgrounds.
SMMEs
A number of local small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME’s) were given an opportunity to market their businesses and display their products.
The event concluded with Chata Romano image consultant Wendy Hind, who gave an inspirational talk on dressing for success and how to make one presentable in the business environment.
