Ellen Kuzwayo

Biography

Ellen Kate Kuzwayo was born in 1914 in Thaba 'Nchu, South Africa. She trained as a teacher and later as a social worker. She worked in schools and community organisations in Soweto and became a leading voice for Black women and against apartheid.

She was president of the Black Consumer Union and was arrested and accused in the Treason Trial (1956–1961). Her memoir, Call Me Woman (1985), won the CNA Literary Award and brought Black women’s experiences under apartheid to a wide readership. She served in the first democratic South African Parliament (1994–1999).

Historical Context

Black women under apartheid faced race and gender oppression, poverty, and limited legal rights. Ellen Kuzwayo organised around consumer rights, education, and community needs while opposing the regime and documenting women’s lives.

What She Fought For

Ellen Kuzwayo fought for Black women’s rights, community development, and an end to apartheid. She combined social work, organising, and writing to give voice to those marginalised by both the state and mainstream narratives.

Major Achievements

• President of the Black Consumer Union; accused in the Treason Trial
• Author of Call Me Woman (1985), CNA Literary Award
• Member of the first democratic Parliament (1994–1999)
• Honoured as a mother of the struggle and a champion of Black women

Her Impact Today

Ellen Kuzwayo died in 2006. She is remembered as a pioneer of Black women’s writing and organising in South Africa and as a bridge between community activism and political representation.