Smith’s life as an activist in the Eastern Cape began when she moved from England with her South African husband in the 1960s. They made their home in Grahamstown where they raised four children. As a member of the Black Sash she participated in events spanning 3 decades in an intensely politicised province, her involvement made her at home in this alien and strange land. Swimming with Cobras, her memoir was published by Modjaji Books.