Cape Town is mourning the loss of Dr Franklin Sonn, who passed away on Saturday, 15 November, at the age of 86, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis expressed his condolences, describing Dr Sonn as ‘an extraordinary Capetonian, distinguished educator, diplomat, and business leader.’
‘Dr Sonn’s work touched generations across our city and beyond,’ Mayor Hill-Lewis said. ‘We owe him a debt of gratitude — not only for his achievements, but for his leadership in nation-building and his vision of an inclusive, just, and empowered society. Our city has lost one of its great moral and civic architects.’
Dr Sonn began his career in education as principal of Spes Bona High School in Athlone before serving as Rector of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology from 1978 to 1994, inspiring countless students and educators. He also held the role of President of the Cape Teachers’ Professional Association during the turbulent apartheid era and played a significant role in South Africa’s democratic transition in 1994.
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In 1995, Dr Sonn was appointed by President Nelson Mandela as South Africa’s first ambassador to the United States in the post-apartheid era, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s diplomatic history.
Throughout his lifetime, Dr Sonn’s contributions were recognised with numerous honours, including the national Order of the Baobab, Cape Town Civic Honours, and over a dozen honorary doctorates.
Mayor Hill-Lewis extended his thoughts to Dr Sonn’s family, noting that the late educator and diplomat leaves behind a legacy of vision, leadership, and service to the city and the country.
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