16/04/1963 - 24/08/2024
It is with profound sadness and deep sympathy that we share the news of the passing of Nic Wolpe, Chief Executive Officer of the Liliesleaf Trust, who left us on Saturday, 24 August 2024. Nic’s life was one deeply intertwined with the preservation of our nation’s history, and his contributions to the memory and legacy of South Africa's liberation struggle are immeasurable.
The National Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS) had the privilege of collaborating with Nic on numerous projects that aimed to keep the history of our struggle for freedom alive. His unwavering commitment to these endeavours ensured that future generations would understand and appreciate the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom. Nic was not just a leader; he was a visionary who understood the profound power of history to shape the future.
Nic’s efforts to preserve Liliesleaf Farm, the nerve centre of the liberation struggle, were driven by his deep belief that history is the collective knowledge of our experiences, vital for nation-building and fostering a shared identity. Under his stewardship, Liliesleaf Farm was transformed into a living monument where the past could be explored in ways that were both innovative and deeply respectful. His work on the Thatched Cottage mobile exhibit, which invited visitors to delve into and piece together fragments of our past like detectives or filmmakers, was a testament to his innovative approach to historical preservation.
As the NIHSS, we are acutely aware of the void left by Nic’s untimely departure. His work was not just about preserving the past; it was about empowering future generations with the knowledge and understanding necessary to build a more just and equitable society. Nic’s legacy challenges us all to be kind, giving, and excellent in our pursuits. It implores us to continue his mission with the same openness and moral integrity that he so effortlessly embodied. The institutions and spaces that Nic helped shape must now carry forward his torch, ensuring that his vision and dedication live on.
Nic’s passing is a significant loss, not only to those who knew and worked with him but also to the broader community of scholars, historians, and citizens committed to preserving and understanding our nation’s heritage. His legacy will continue to inspire us to approach our work with the same dedication and passion that he embodied, reminding us that the past is not just something to be remembered but something that actively shapes our future.
In these moments of reflection and mourning, we extend our deepest condolences to Nic’s family, friends, and colleagues. His memory will forever be a beacon of courage, commitment, and integrity. We owe it to him to carry forward the torch he held so high and to ensure that the stories of our past continue to inform and inspire our future.
In memory of Nic Wolpe, a true custodian of our history.
With heartfelt sympathy,
National Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS)
