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We have reported in prior editions of this web site concerning the Inanda Seminary, a girls' school founded by American Board missionaries in the 1860's. The school had fallen on hard times in the last years, and the campus had become, in a complicated word, decrepit. The vision of 'Mah Edwards,' the indomitable headmistress for half a century, was crumbling. It's motto is "Shine where you are" -- but the school itself was not. But a group of the 'old girls' took up the challenge, and -- since the alumnae include women of considerable influence in the new South Africa -- they were able to enlist the aide of Nelson Mandela. One thing led to another, and help was forthcoming from SAPPI, the South African based global paper company, in the form of money and project assistance to recover the special place that they call 'Kwa Mah Edwards'.
May 29 was the ceremony celebrating the restoration of most of the campus. From what we'd seen when we first were at Inanda, a year ago, to the place today, there was a near miraculous transformation. And the hope for the future is strong. We were invited, and thus were able to attend the assembly service where, among others, Nelson Mandela appeared and spoke. It was one of those moments when you know you've experienced a piece of history.
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