Tokyo Sexwale Biography: Age, Education, Career, Businesses, Foundations, Current Wife, Children, Family, Net Worth
Tokyo Sexwale Biography
Tokyo Sexwale, whose full name is Mosima Gabriel Sexwale, is a prominent South African figure known for his roles as a businessman, politician, anti-apartheid activist, and former political prisoner. He became widely recognized for his imprisonment on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela due to his anti-apartheid activities.
Sexwale’s political career includes serving as the first Premier of Gauteng after South Africa’s 1994 general election, which was the first fully democratic election in the country. He later served as the Minister of Human Settlements from 2009 to 2013.
In addition to his political work, he is also known for his business ventures, particularly in the mining and energy sectors, and his involvement in various foundations and councils that focus on peace, dialogue, and advocacy.
Tokyo Sexwale Age
Tokyo Sexwale is 71 years old as of 2024.
Tokyo Sexwale Early Life and Education
Tokyo Sexwale was born on March 5, 1953, in the township of Orlando West, Soweto. His father, a clerk at Johannesburg General Hospital, had been a World War II veteran, fighting against the Germans.
Tokyo Sexwale attended St Martins Primary School in Rosettenville, Johannesburg, and later matriculated from Orlando West High School in 1972. His nickname “Tokyo” was derived from his involvement with the sport of karate during his youth, a discipline that perhaps instilled in him the resilience he would need for his future political and activist endeavors.
Sexwale’s education continued beyond high school as he pursued higher learning at the University of Botswana, Lesotho, and Swaziland. Initially, he attended the Lesotho campus before moving to Swaziland. During this time, he completed a Certificate in Business Studies. However, his education was interrupted due to his ANC activities being detected by the Swazi authorities, leading to his exile and subsequent military training.
Tokyo Sexwale Career
Tokyo Sexwale’s career is a tapestry of political activism, business acumen, and public service. His journey began in the crucible of South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle, where he was a member of the African National Congress’s (ANC) armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe. His commitment to the cause saw him undergo military officers’ training in the Soviet Union, specializing in military engineering. Upon his return to South Africa, he was captured and, after a lengthy trial, was imprisoned on Robben Island for 18 years.
During his incarceration, Sexwale did not let the confines of prison stifle his thirst for knowledge or his drive for leadership. He studied for a BCom degree at the University of South Africa, preparing for a future beyond the prison walls. His release in 1990, under the terms of the Groote Schuur Agreement, marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one that would see him transition from freedom fighter to political leader.
In the wake of South Africa’s first fully democratic election in 1994, Sexwale was appointed as the Premier of Gauteng Province. His tenure was characterized by efforts to improve the socio-economic conditions of the province’s residents. After his stint as Premier, Sexwale’s career took a turn towards the business world, where he became known for his role in leading the Mvelaphanda Group and Africa Management Limited, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.
Sexwale’s business ventures spanned various sectors, but he remained particularly influential in mining and energy. His leadership in the Mvelaphanda Group, an investment holding company, and Mvelaphanda Resources, a mining company, underscored his ability to navigate complex industries and emerge as a successful businessman.
Despite his business success, Sexwale never strayed far from politics and public service. He served as South Africa’s Minister of Human Settlements from 2009 to 2013, under President Jacob Zuma. In this role, he was responsible for addressing housing issues and improving living conditions for many South Africans, continuing his lifelong commitment to social justice and equality.
Throughout his career, Sexwale has been recognized for his contributions to society with various honors and awards. These accolades include the Légion d’honneur from France, the Reach and Teach Leadership Award from the United States, and honorary doctorates from institutions such as Nottingham Trent University and De Montfort University.
Tokyo Sexwale Businesses
Tokyo Sexwale has been involved in various business ventures, particularly in the mining and energy sectors. Here is a list of some of the businesses associated with him:
- Mvelaphanda Holdings: This company focuses on diamonds, platinum, and energy.
- Global Village Network: Sexwale serves as the chair for this network.
- Global Village Network Technology: He also chairs this technology-focused entity.
- MOCOH Energy: Another energy company where Sexwale holds a chairmanship position.
- Arcus Gibb Engineering: He is involved with this engineering firm.
- Northam Platinum Limited: Sexwale has been associated with this platinum mining company.
- Trans Hex Group Limited: A diamond mining company where he has held a chairmanship role.
- ABSA Group Limited: He has served as a director for this financial services group.
- Gold Fields Limited: Sexwale has been a director of this gold mining company.
Tokyo Sexwale Foundations
The Tokyo Sexwale Foundation is a philanthropic organization established by Tokyo Sexwale. It focuses on promoting access to education, healthcare, and other vital services for disadvantaged communities. Additionally, the foundation is involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS, reflecting Sexwale’s commitment to social issues and his dedication to improving the lives of those in need.
Sexwale is also known for his involvement with other foundations and trusts, such as the Sexwale Family Foundation and the Desmond Tutu Peace Trust. He is a trustee and founder of these organizations, which further indicates his active role in philanthropy and social advocacy. Moreover, he founded Global Watch: Say No To Racism-Discrimination in All Sport, an initiative that underscores his commitment to combating discrimination.
Tokyo Sexwale Wife and Children
Tokyo Sexwale has been married twice:
First Wife and Children
Tokyo Sexwale’s first marriage was to Judy van Vuuren, whom he married after his release from prison in 1994. The couple had two children together, Gabrielle and Chris Sexwale. They were married for nearly two decades before their separation in 2013.
Second Wife
In more recent years, Tokyo Sexwale married Natacha da Silva, with whom he shares a son named Nasima. The couple started dating in 2013 and welcomed their first child together in 2016. Natacha da Silva is significantly younger than Sexwale, and their marriage has been a subject of media attention due to their age difference.
Tokyo Sexwale Net Worth
Tokyo Sexwale’s net worth is estimated to be around $200 million. This estimation comes from various sources that attribute his wealth to his successful business ventures, investments, and his political career.
