Julia Albu inspired not only South Africans but people across the globe, proving that it is never too late to have an epic adventure!
South Africa (04 August 2021) – South Africa lost an inspiration and legendary woman this week. Julia Albu had an epic adventure from Cape Town all the way to Cairo in her 1997 Toyota Conquest to raise awareness for literacy.
Julia made the road trip and, along the way, stopped to hand out books to children. Her Toyota Conquest was nicknamed ‘Tracy’, and before the epic adventure, it has travelled over 400,000km in the last 20 years. Julia had faith in ‘Tracy’ and her ability to make the trek through Africa.
They did face a few troubles along the way. ‘Tracy’ had a few troubles but managed to get them all the way to Uganda before needing some work. Julia even had to sleep in a cafeteria in Egypt for two nights with seven men, but she never felt unsafe, and the men helped her get through the time.
Julia got to see the Giraffe in Dar es Salaam and the beautiful Kilimanjaro. She drank from coconuts on the beach in Mombassa and visited multiple animal sanctuaries across the continent, promoting conservation along the way. Julia is proof that you can have an adventure of a lifetime at any age!
Her epic adventure took 5 months to complete, and it was one for the books! Sadly, Julia passed away this week, but her story will live on forever!
The mother of four and grandmother of nine has left a lasting memory in South Africa. Her family took to her social media page ‘My African Conquest’ to share the news of her passing on Monday, the 2nd of August.
“It is with great sadness that we have to write this post, one that is far too soon for all of us. Our darling mother, Julia, an inspiration to so many died early this morning. We are thankful that she went without pain, at home, at her time and that she wasn’t taken by Covid. To all of her loyal followers, thank you so much: you brought her so much joy & I know she would want all of you to follow your dreams & travel your best journeys. Rest in precious peace. From her children xxx”
Rest in peace, Julia!