Cape town: President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the passing of educator, diplomat, and business leader, Dr Franklin Sonn. Dr Sonn, who passed away at the age of 86, made significant contributions to various sectors of society and the economy.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Presidency released a statement on Saturday, highlighting Dr Sonn’s esteemed role as a Member of the National Order of the Baobab and his numerous international honors. President Ramaphosa extended his condolences to Mrs. Joan Sonn, their children Crispin and Heather, as well as extended family and associates both nationally and internationally.
Dr Sonn served as democratic South Africa’s first Ambassador to the United States and distinguished himself in leadership roles across education, politics, and business. His career began as a teacher, later becoming the principal of Spes Bona High School in Athlone, Cape Town. He was also President of the Cape Teachers’ Professional Association before his appointment as Rector of the then Peninsula Technikon in Cape Town, a position he held until his diplomatic posting.
As an anti-apartheid campaigner and advocate for broad-based economic empowerment, Dr Sonn was instrumental in promoting a just South Africa. He served on the boards of significant corporate businesses and co-founded large black-owned enterprises. President Ramaphosa remarked on Dr Sonn’s inspiring leadership and advocacy for the transformation and upliftment of historically marginalized communities.
President Ramaphosa also noted Dr Sonn’s philanthropic endeavors alongside his wife, Joan Sonn, and their role in imparting leadership qualities to their children, Crispin and Heather. He emphasized the enduring impact of Dr Sonn’s contributions to South Africa’s history and reaffirmed a commitment to continue building the society he envisioned.
President Ramaphosa concluded his tribute by reflecting on Dr Sonn’s lasting legacy and the collective responsibility to honor his vision for equality and development.