We are sad to learn of the passing of Master Storyteller Nothando Zulu. Known to many as Mrs. Zulu, Mother Zulu, and Queen Mother Zulu, she was a dearly loved COMPAS Teaching Artist, a local legend, and a storyteller whose light warmed everyone around her.
Nothando always stood with the community and was home to many. She was the embodiment of positivity and compassion and a force against injustice. Those who were lucky enough to spend time with her often commented on the warmth of her smile and how her presence radiated love, joy, and dignity. Many benefited from her wisdom and guidance.
“Nothando Zulu loved to tell stories, and I loved listening to her tell stories. Her voice was captivating. She had a special way of transporting you to different worlds…teaching the community through storytelling about our history, encouraging us to stand tall…to embrace our greatness, and reminded us of the importance of laughter. I am thankful to have known her; she was truly a great friend and mentor. Nothando Zulu left a legacy—she was ‘Queen’ of storytelling. ”
— Danielle Daniel, COMPAS Teaching Artist
Nothando first began telling stories in her school in Virginia at the age of eight. Her subsequent storytelling career spanned decades. Her stories bore witness to her rural, southern background and she captivated audiences of all ages with her lively and engaging storytelling style.
Years of performance earned Nothando the distinguished title of Master Storyteller. She was also the President and Director of Black Storytellers Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to maintaining the oral storytelling tradition as practiced by African people in the Diaspora.
“Nothando Zulu gave depth, breadth, and richness to the stories, legacy, and the wealth of expression embedded in the African and African American experience. Her storytelling, performance, and leadership have left us with a glorious quilt; each patch revealing the enormity of her heart and her talent…both drenched in the love she held, so dearly, for her family, this community, educating our youth and elders, and moreover, Nothando’s great love and appreciation for the Motherland, its stories, its people, its history, and its overwhelming impact on art and culture as we know it. Sojourner Truth wrote: ‘I am not going to die, I am going home like a shooting star.’ That is Nothando, she has left us with a brilliant trail of light across the sky reminding us to always shoot for the stars and that hers will never dim, forever glowing radiant and bright as she did here on Earth.”
— T. Mychael Rambo, COMPAS Teaching Artist
Our hearts are with all who knew and loved Nothando. We share your shock and grief at the loss of this Northside Legend. Rest in Power, Nothando.
Dawne, Julie, Joan, Frank, Emma, Marlaine, Emrys, Katie, Ashley, Sam – the COMPAS team
