He is a man of great reputation in South Africa.
He is part of the surviving generation of the freedom fighters and activists who fought for South Africas democracy.
He paid greatly for the freedom that many South Africans enjoy today.
Don Mattera the storyteller. Photo: @vanessaperumalSource: Instagram
So, how well do you know the activist?
Let us delve into his life story.
He was born to an Italian father and a Khoisan woman.
Read also
Heconsiders himselfan Italian since his grandfather was an Italian immigrant from the Cape.
He is proud of his roots.
His mother was a domestic worker in Johannesburg.
Don Mattera. Photo: @NathiMthethwaSASource: Twitter
The government moved his family to Westbury, anarea designatedfor the colored in the society.
When he turned eight years, his grandmother took him to St. Theresa Catholic Covenant School inDurbanfor studies.
However, his grandparents were displeased with the quality of education offered by the government.
Read also
In his teenage years, he joined gang groups that would significantly alter his life.
Don Mattera school years were troubled due to his involvement with the gang.
As fate would have it, he became the leader of a detestable gang group called the Vultures.
Don Mattera giving a speech at an event. Photo: @PoetryAfricaSource: Twitter
As a gang leader, he escaped death several times.
An attempt was made for his life when he was stabbed and shot at by rival gang members.
During this period, he became a father.
Read also
Mattera realized his calling in South African politics and decided to join theAfrican National CongressYouth League.
He became a political activist and helped preach the politics of Black Consciousness as Robert McBride’s book noted.
He formed the Union of Black Journalists and the Congress of South African writers.
Don Mattera signing his autobiography. Photo: @aa_rt_iSource: Instagram
His political activities aroused the curiosity of the government, and he was banned from 1973 to 1982.
He spent part of these years under house arrest.
He is highly praised for his contributions to democracy like his counterpartSam Phillips, who died recently.
Read also
Family
Don is a father of many children, including ason named Teddy.
The foundation aims to honor the legendary freedom veteran and educate the youth.
His poems inspire children and South Africans at large.
Read also
Don Mattera books include his iconic autobiography calledMemory is the Weapon, written in 1987.
Poems and quotes
Don Mattera best poems are read in social events where he recites them.
He has been quoted saying, My mission is to remove pain and suffering from peoples lives.
Read also
He has also been quoted saying, The highest religion is compassion.
What is the meaning of Don Mattera place of safety?
He tells a story of life in the cosmopolitan suburbs in the 1950s when life was good and safe.
Is Don Mattera still alive?
Yes, he is alive and well.
In his early life, he escaped death numerous times when he was a member of a gang.
Today, he helps reform street children and reads poems and stories to school children.
He is a poet, storyteller, community activist, and former journalist.
He is remembered for his contributions to the struggle for freedom during the Apartheid regime.
He is among many renowned freedom fighters who paid heavily for the freedom that many South Africans enjoy today.
His legacy will remain to aspire many for years to come.
READ ALSO:Ricky Craven bio: wife, TV shows, net worth, where is he today?
Briefly.co.zapublished an article aboutRicky Craven, who is a stock car enthusiast.
In his former years, he was a NASCAR and motorsport driver.
She has a Bachelor of Commerce & IT from the University of Nairobi and joined Briefly.co.za in November 2019.
The writer completed a Google News Initiate Course.
you might email her at perisrodah254@gmail.com.
