Dr Vuyelwa Mashalaba (1946 - 1996) was a South African anti-apartheid activist, medical doctor, and key figure in the Black Consciousness Movement (BCM) and the Azanian People's Organization (AZAPO).  As the first female Secretary of the South African Student Organization (SASO) from 1970–1971, she played a crucial role in establishing the movement. She was elected as a secretary during the inaugural conference of SASO in July 1969 and served as the General Secretary from 1970 to 1971. While studying at the Wentworth medical school (University of Natal Non-European section), she was part of the small group of black students who sat on the Students' Representative Council (SRC) at the previously white Howard College. She played a vital role in introducing other prominent activists to the Black Consciousness Movement. Credit: SAHO, Teleki E Teleke