Winnie Mandela
The passing of Winnie Mandela on April 2 was a blow to many people. She’s on this list because of the formidable things she has done in her life and the legacy she leaves behind. Not only was she a campaigner against apartheid, she also kept the memory and work of Nelson Mandela alive when he was in prison. As a woman unafraid of controversies, she not only stated her truth, she also stood her ground (not without blowback from authorities and others). She will be remembered for her strength, resilience and passion for justice.