I am Ndileka-More Than My Surname by Ndileka Mandela gives readers a glimpse into the life of Nelson Mandela’s first grandchild. Ndileka has given us a memoir of her life from childhood until now.
She touches on so many issues that affect an ordinary South African woman which makes it so relatable. What I like most is that she does not only tell her story, but there are dozens of lessons packed inside this book as well for everyone.
The scribe reflects on being raised by strong women and how that has shaped her life. She writes about being a mother, professional and also being a Mandela and all that comes with the surname, both good, which can honestly be above average, the not-so-pleasant experiences, invasion of one’s private space, and the endless societal expectations.
This is a well-balanced book which does not give us only the shinning parts of her life but also the difficult ones. What I loved the most is that she tells us how she overcame her difficulties and even better how others can also avoid some of the mishaps she has encountered.
She is authentic and I could feel that as I perused through this book. She has shown us her true identity as an individual besides what society would want her to be. She is Ndileka and I agree that she is more than her surname.