Mary Twala was a doyenne of the entertainment and arts industry, whose creative craft contributed to social cohesion in a united South Africa.
These are the sentiments of Geoffrey Makhubo, the Executive Mayor, who describes the late local and international screen icon as the glue that brought society together.
The television and movie legend died at Parklane hospital in Parktown on 4 July aged 80.
“We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Mme Mary Twala. She was an icon, a leading and veteran South African thespian,” says Makhubo.
Twala, with a career that spanned over six decades, was a recipient of the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, the highest honour a sitting South African President bestows on excellent practitioners in the arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sports' fraternities. The actress was recognised for her excellent contribution to the performing arts and for raising awareness of women’s health issues through storytelling.
“This recognition demonstrates her immense contribution to the arts fraternity in its entirety,” says Makhubo.
Reflecting on her life and legacy, the Mayor says future generations in the arts will reap the fruits of the seeds Twala planted.
"We are most indebted to her as the City for her work in raising awareness on various national issues through storytelling and for her contribution to the arts. She departs and joins a galaxy of stars who lived and made Joburg a world-class African city," says Makhubo.
Twala was laid to rest on Thursday, 9 July.
Image credit @Somizi instagram
