All-black with a touch of colour of honour was order of the morning on 19 April 2024 as anticipation built up to the unveiling.
MECs, Gauteng premier candidates from the EFF, ANC and Action SA parties and other honoraries made their way through the gates of Nicolway Shopping Centre.
Right before them was a red cloth covering the signage that would bear the new name for the trendy Bryanston shopping centre.
Acquired two years ago by Akani properties in a R1 billion bid on behalf of the Municipal Employees Pension Fund (MEPF), the centre marked a major milestone in the investment strategy of the fund.
Hailed as the woman who insisted that she be called by name when she was detained by the apartheid police instead of by number, the MC of the ceremony Mathawe Masipa says no one better person could be more deserving of the honour.
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Winnie Mandela, often referred to as the "Mother of the Nation," embodied unwavering commitment to the struggle against apartheid, resilience in the face of adversity, and dedication to uplifting communities.
“By naming the shopping centre after her, Akani aims to celebrate her rich and multifaceted legacy, acknowledging both her achievements and the challenges she faced,” Akani Properties said in a statement.
"We choose to focus on the broader spectrum of Winnie Mandela's contributions. The renaming is an evolution that aligns Nicolway with the broader narrative of community and family values," said Akani Managing Director, Mr Jack Malebane at Nicolway Shopping Centre.
The renaming draws a parallel with other iconic places, such as Nelson Mandela Square, emphasising the familial and community-oriented aspects of both figures.
By having Nicolway named after Winnie Mandela, Akani aims to create a network of spaces reflecting diverse aspects of the Mandela legacy, including family, community, and leadership.
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"Nicolway Shopping Centre has always strived to be a family-friendly and community-centric space. Naming the shopping centre after Winnie Mandela is a recognition of her softer side – her dedication to family, community, and the well-being of the nation," added Akani Group Chairman, Mr Zamani Letjane.
This renaming represents an opportunity for the community to appreciate Winnie Mandela's multifaceted contributions beyond the political realm.
Embracing the complexity of history, Nicolway is committed to recognizing individuals for their positive contributions and fostering a sense of unity.
In September 2023, William Nicol Drive which connects thousands of motorists daily to the richest square mile in Africa, Sandton was also renamed to Winnie Mandela in honour of the struggle stalwart.
