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Honouring Dr. Naledi Pandor — The Trailblazer Who Took Israel to Court on Behalf of South Africa
10-26-2025
In a powerful evening filled with gratitude and admiration, community members came together to honour Dr. Naledi Pandor, South Africa’s former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, for her unwavering courage and moral leadership.
The event recognized South Africa’s bold and historic action in charging Israel with genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) — a step that resonated across the world as a stand for justice and humanity. Under Dr. Pandor’s leadership, South Africa reaffirmed its legacy of resistance to oppression and its deep commitment to global solidarity.
Who Is Dr. Naledi Pandor?
Born into a family defined by courage and conviction, Dr. Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor is the daughter of a renowned anti-apartheid activist. Her life’s journey reflects the spirit of her nation — steadfast, visionary, and rooted in justice.
From 1994 to 2024, Dr. Pandor’s distinguished public service career spanned three decades, during which she held multiple high-profile cabinet positions including:
Minister of Education
Minister of Science and Technology
Minister of Home Affairs
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (2019–2024)
Each role underscored her commitment to equity, empowerment, and transformation — both within South Africa and on the global stage.
A Scholar and a Stateswoman
Dr. Pandor’s academic journey is as inspiring as her political one. She earned a Certificate for Continuing Education, a Diploma in Leadership Development, and completed her PhD in 2019. Her deep understanding of education and policy has earned her global respect and numerous accolades, including:
The Science Diplomacy Award
The Outstanding Educator Award
Germany’s Grand Cross of Merit
Honorary Doctorates from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Her leadership and intellect have consistently been guided by compassion, integrity, and a belief in the transformative power of knowledge.
Taking a Stand for Justice
In December 2023, under Dr. Pandor’s stewardship, South Africa made history by filing a landmark lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of violating the Genocide Convention through its actions in Gaza.
This courageous act reaffirmed South Africa’s role as a moral voice for the oppressed — echoing the nation’s own painful history under apartheid. Dr. Pandor’s steadfastness in the face of global pressure demonstrated her deep commitment to truth, justice, and human dignity.
“Our history obliges us to stand against injustice — anywhere, against anyone,”
— Dr. Naledi Pandor
Faith, Family, and Conviction
Dr. Pandor, who embraced Islam after meeting her husband, is also known by her Muslim name, Nadia. Her faith, humility, and conviction have inspired admiration not only in South Africa but around the world.
Dr. Naledi Pandor’s A Historic Visit to Vancouver
On Saturday, October 4, 2025, Dr. Naledi Pandor visited Vancouver, where she was warmly received by community leaders, activists, and supporters. “An Evening of Gratitude” served as both a celebration of her contributions and a call to action — reminding all present that the struggle for justice and human rights is universal and ongoing.
A Legacy That Inspires
Dr. Naledi Pandor’s journey — from a young woman shaped by South Africa’s anti-apartheid movement to a global advocate for justice — continues to inspire millions. Her courage in standing up for Palestine and challenging systems of oppression exemplifies the very principles that South Africa fought for: freedom, equality, and human dignity for all.
Photo Caption (for layout):
Dr. Naledi Pandor addresses the audience in Vancouver during “An Evening of Gratitude,” October 4, 2025.
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