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It Always Seems Impossible: My fight to build and save Education Africa – James Urdang


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It Always Seems Impossible: My fight to build and save Education Africa – James Urdang

James Urdang discusses his book 'It Always Seems Impossible: My fight to build and save Education Africa' (Camera & editing: Darlene Creamer)

24th October 2025

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At school, James Urdang was a troublemaking underachiever. Diagnosed with ADHD and Dyslexia at an early age, few could have imagined he’d go on to found Education Africa, an organisation that has helped educate thousands of young black South Africans.

Mentored by Walter Sisulu, entrusted by Nelson Mandela and supported by Helen Suzman and Dr Aggrey Klaaste − former Editor-in-Chief of The Sowetan - who became the organisation’s first chairman in 1992 − James, driven by determination and sheer audacity made his dream a reality. Until one day it all came crashing down as he faced a gruelling battle to save his NPO, Education Africa, from a hostile takeover by executives from a global financial institution.  

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

James Urdang is an international award-winning humanitarian, a social entrepreneur and powerful motivational speaker. As CEO and founder of Education Africa, he has dedicated more than three decades of his life to bring about real, positive and meaningful change to the lives of disadvantaged Africans. James was honoured to have been asked to speak at the funeral of the late Chris Hani and has worked closely with leaders in many fields over the years, most notably with Nelson Mandela.

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'It Always Seems Impossible: My fight to build and save Education Africa' is published by Bookstorm

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