During her distinguished career as an American diplomat, Ambassador Bridgewater established trust with Nelson Mandela during South Africa’s transition from apartheid and later served as U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Republic of Ghana, and Jamaica. The Fredericksburg, Virginia native will release her memoir, Bridging Troubled Waters, at her book launch and signing event on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at the Shiloh Baptist Church (Old Site), 801 Sophia Street, Fredericksburg, VA. Book purchases begin 10:00 a.m.; book launch at 11:00 a.m. with keynote remarks from Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, former U. S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Signing and additional book purchases from noon to 1:00 p.m.
Ambassador Bridgewater will read short passages from her memoir and share why it was important to tell the story. In Bridging Troubled Waters, the author takes readers on an enjoyable and enlightening journey, as she tells this inspiring story beginning with her childhood in segregated Fredericksburg, Virginia to her extraordinary rise to a career where she was the longest serving U.S. diplomat during South Africa’s transition from apartheid.
This inspirational memoir includes anecdotes from the Ambassador’s story of succeeding against the odds, while never forgetting those who helped her along the way. It is also a testament to her drive, commitment and ability to overcome challenges in bridging troubled waters across many seas and continents. Bridging Troubled Waters will also be available for purchase on Amazon beginning July 12, 2025.
For information about this book launch event, future book signings, or for interviews with Ambassador Bridgewater, please see the contact information above.