Dr Judith Coullie's research interest is life writing in its various forms, including autobiography and biography, particularly in relation to South Africa. Her topic is Remembering Nelson Mandela.
Dr Coullie has a BA Hons (English), a Post Graduate teaching qualification and PhD from the University of Natal. She was awarded an MA (English) from Syracuse University, USA, and a CELTA (teaching English to ESOL students) and Post Graduate Certificate in Education from Canterbury University, NZ.
Nelson Rolihlalha Mandela: “The Long Walk to Freedom”
In this lecture, we trace Nelson Mandela's life and achievements. Born into Thembu (Xhosa) royalty, Nelson Mandela was gradually drawn to the African National Congress and the liberation struggle. Initially committed to non-violent protest, in 1961, in association with the South African Communist Party, he co-founded the militant uMkhonto we Sizwe and led a sabotage campaign against the state. He was imprisoned for life for conspiring to overthrow the state. While still in prison, he entered into negotiations with the apartheid government to establish democracy in South Africa. In 1993, Mandela was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize with FW de Klerk. He died on 5 December 2013.