Robben Island to Wall Street

Dr. Gaby Magomola’s memoir reflects on a critical time in the history of South Africa. Taking broad lyrical strides across various major crucial epochs in the history of this country, Gaby offers an insider’s view of a number of key events. During the 1960s, South Africa was in the grip of various uprisings leading to the Sharpeville massacre and the arrest and incarceration of various leaders and activists of the day, including the young Gaby. Some years later, the Soweto uprisings followed, while, during the 80s and early 90s, the repressive reign of P.W. Botha prevailed, which later ended with the subsequent demise of apartheid. A wide range of events are aptly captured in this brave book, with its vivid descriptions of his life as a young man, his involvement in the struggle, and his adult life as a businessman in the new South Africa. This is a significant contribution to documenting life under apartheid. In looking wider than the inside of Robben Island, as one of South Africa’s most symbolic centers of incarceration during the dark days of apartheid, Gaby elevates this personal story to a life-affirming tale of courage and hope for all generations. He generously shares his life strategies which led to his survival within and triumph over a business world that was hostile to black people. He endured a harsh prison life at the tender age of 19 and he navigated the steep climb from a casual laborer to a global career in banking. On his return to South Africa, he made a pioneering effort to set up new business ventures. Such highlights form the lifeblood of a bold and enduring narrative.