Saheti School celebrated the 89th birthday of Advocate George Bizos on November 15.
Adv Biozos, a world renowned South African human rights lawyer, was born in Odyssey, Greece, in 1927.
He arrived in South Africa in 1941 with his father.
During a one-on-one interview with the NEWS, Adv Bizos said he and his father arrived in South Africa when he was 13 years old.
“We came on a ship and arrived in Durban. We later moved to Johannesburg,” said Adv Bizos.
He is a Wits University graduate.
He became friends with the late former president Dr Nelson Mandela.
Adv Bizos was also part of the legal team that represented Madiba during the now well-known Rivonia Trial.
When asked what his secret to long life is, Adv Bizos said none.
“Instead, treat your body right. I avoid meat and eat many vegetables. I enjoy fish a lot. Plus my sons, who are in medicine, govern my life,” he said.
Adv Bizos said he is also passionate about vegetable gardening.
The 89-year-old currently works within the Constitutional Litigation Unit of the Legal Resources Centre.
He joined in 1990 during the writing and putting together of the South African Constitution.
He said although he planned on retiring four years ago, when the Marikana Massacre happened, he could no longer leave.
“I had to stay on and help those people,” he said.
Adv Bizos was also actively involved in the Silicosis court case involving former workers and more than 30 gold mining companies.
At the birthday celebration hosted by learners, staff and guests, Adv Bizos gave an address.
He is the founder of the school and Life Vice President of the Saheti Board.
