The women who made me
Jamil F Khan
Known for unapologetically sharing his take on the politics of race, researcher, columnist and author Jamil F Khan gets candid about the five women who contributed to his success.
FARIEDA KHAN
My mother was my first friend. Whenever I would feel afraid or lonely growing up, my doting mother would always reassure me of her constant presence in my life. Her pride and confidence in me gave me great self-esteem and, in many ways, it is what has enabled me to continually chase my dreams.
TAYSHIRA KHAN
My sister has always been my guardian angel. When we were younger, we were like oil and water – in a symbiotic way: she, the oil, always protected me, the water. Independent and fearless in a harsh world, my sister was my first example of what I was capable of when faced with adversity. Her ability to always come out on top inspires me to do better.
DR ANTHEA LESCH
Dr Anthea Lesch was my third-year psychology lecturer at Stellenbosch University and my honours supervisor. I had never seen a black woman own a lecture theatre the way she did; I had never felt so seen and represented at university. Now as my best friend, Anthea has paved the way for me to succeed in both academia and life.
MAYA ANGELOU
Wow, what a woman. She has seen the best and worst of society, yet she still kept such an admirable faith in humanity. Most importantly, she reminded me to “trust love one more time, and always one more time.” These words led me to the most beautiful relationship of my life.
BEVERLEY FANELLA
During my first week at university, I was ready to give up. Beverley, my recruiter, always left her oce door open for my weekly meltdowns. She took such a personal interest in me and my studies. I owe a big part of my journey to the perseverance she instilled in me.