Chancellor: Stellenbosch University
Edwin Cameron (born 15 February 1953 in Pretoria) is a retired judge who served as a Justice of the Constitutional Court of South Africa. He is well known for his HIV/AIDS and gay-rights activism and was hailed by Nelson Mandela as “one of South Africa’s new heroes”. President Ramaphosa appointed him as Inspecting Judge of Correctional Services from January 2020 and in October 2019 he was elected Chancellor of Stellenbosch University.
“I’m inspired daily by the idea that each of us can, practically and beneficially, make a difference to our own lives and the lives of others.”
Justice Edwin Cameron is widely recognised for his brilliance and his commitment to human rights and social justice and is considered one of South Africa’s most prominent and distinguished judicial figures.
An alumnus of Stellenbosch University (SU), and a recipient of an honorary doctorate from this institution for his “unstinting professional and personal advocacy for the recognition of every person’s dignity, freedom and equality”, Cameron is the 15th Chancellor of SU.
As the first South African in a high-profile public office speaking openly about his HIV status and experience taking antiretroviral drugs (ARVs), Cameron has made a credible and crucial contribution to more accessible ARV treatment for all South Africans living with HIV.
His international impact as top jurist with nearly 200 published judgments against his name, acclaimed author and popular speaker is evident from the numerous awards and distinctions he has received, among them the Nelson Mandela award. Other accolades include recognition by the Bar of England and Wales for his contribution to international jurisprudence and the protection of human rights, and the prestigious Grand Prix du Conseil Québécois des Gais et Lesbiennes award bestowed on him in Montreal.
His approach to handling difficult situations is premised on two principles that he holds dear: integrity and preparation. He has helped develop South African law so as to truly reflect the fundamental values of the Constitution and is a key player in South African and international law.