Bearing Testimony honours the lives of individuals whose contributions helped shape the history, culture, education, and social life of Stellenbosch, but whose stories have often remained marginalised or overlooked. Through short biographical introductions linked to more detailed accounts, this page seeks to preserve their memories and recognise the many ways they contributed to their communities.
These testimonies are not intended as complete biographies. Rather, they serve as points of entry into the lives of people whose experiences illuminate broader histories of belonging, displacement, resilience, leadership, education, faith, and social justice. Together, they contribute to a richer and more inclusive understanding of Stellenbosch’s past.
Resistance and Social Justice
The struggle against apartheid in Stellenbosch was sustained by individuals who challenged injustice with courage, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to human dignity. Their leadership, sacrifice, and activism became powerful expressions of resistance and continue to inspire the pursuit of justice and equality.
Ronald Carolissen
Ronald Carolissen was a dedicated community activist and leader whose commitment to justice, equality, and the well-being of Stellenbosch’s marginalised communities left a lasting impact. His life was tragically cut short when he was shot and killed by police with a shotgun, making him a powerful symbol of the struggle against apartheid’s violence and injustice.
Donovan Wanza
Donovan Wanza was a prominent anti-apartheid activist and leader of the Class of 76, a movement that emerged in Stellenbosch during the wave of resistance sparked by the 1976 Soweto Uprising. Through his courage and leadership, he became a powerful symbol of the struggle against apartheid, dedicating his life to justice, equality, and the dignity of oppressed communities.
Frank Anthony
Frank Anthony was a committed anti-apartheid activist, educator, and public intellectual whose life was dedicated to justice and human dignity. As the only political prisoner from Stellenbosch to be imprisoned on Robben Island, he became a powerful symbol of resistance to apartheid. Through his activism, leadership, and lifelong commitment to critical thought and social justice, he left an enduring legacy for future generations.
Education
These testimonies recognise educators whose work shaped generations of learners and contributed to the educational and intellectual life of Stellenbosch.
Walter Parry
Walter Parry was a respected educator and principal whose lifelong commitment to education shaped generations of learners. His leadership, scholarship and service left a lasting legacy in Stellenbosch and beyond.
Imam Fuad Samaai
Imam Fuad Samaai played a pivotal role in the transformation of Islamic education in Stellenbosch and in the development of the local Muslim community. His leadership helped shape religious education and community life for generations.
Achmed Arnolds
Achmed Arnolds devoted his life to Islamic education and community service in Stellenbosch. As a teacher, tailor, and respected community figure, he played a central role in preserving and passing on religious knowledge to generations of children.
Community Leadership
Strong communities are shaped by people who dedicate themselves to the service and well-being of others. Through their leadership, compassion, and commitment, these individuals strengthened community life in Stellenbosch and left a lasting legacy that continues to resonate today.
Simon Adams
Simon Adams was a respected community leader whose lifelong commitment to service, justice, and the wellbeing of others earned him the admiration of many in Stellenbosch. Through his leadership, integrity, and dedication to uplifting his community, he played an important role in strengthening social cohesion and advocating for the rights and dignity of those he served.
Victor Honey
Victor Honey was a respected community leader and anti-apartheid activist whose commitment to justice and equality left a lasting impact on Stellenbosch. As one of the few white residents to stand publicly against apartheid, he demonstrated remarkable courage and solidarity with oppressed communities. His leadership, integrity, and dedication to social justice continue to inspire future generations.
Heritage
The preservation of Die Vlakte’s heritage has been sustained by individuals and organisations committed to safeguarding it’s history and memory
Mogamad Ras
Mogamad Ras was a community historian and heritage activist dedicated to preserving history and memory of Die Vlakte.
