"Survival," writes Mamphela Ramphele, "is a stronger force than the fear of offending others." Born black and female in apartheid-ruled South Africa, Ramphele went on to become one of Africa's most distinguished women - a leading political activist, medical doctor, anthropologist, teacher, advisor to the Mandela government, university president, and mother to two sons. Across Boundaries chronicles Ramphele's inspiring journey, revealing the staggering personal losses that coexist with her astonishing political and professional achievements. In Across Boundaries, this courageous and accomplished woman tells her own story for the first time - a story of finding the will to challenge oppression. As Mamphela Ramphele relives the gripping events of her life, the larger story of South Africa's turbulent struggle is revealed along with the poignant story of one of its leaders: her early struggles to maintain dignity and hope in a world that devalued both blacks and women; her battles against despair, especially in the wake of Biko's death and the death of a third child in infancy; her efforts to balance the demands of public and private life - of activism, work, and family; her mistakes and regrets as well as her triumphs. Just as her country is learning to come to terms with its past, Mamphela Ramphele, with this memoir, recognizes the need for personal restoration, reflection, and healing.