Nelson Mandela International Day

 – by Nicolene Ascenso

State President of South Africa Nelson Mandela smiles on May 22, 1996, Bonn, Germany. (Photo by Thomas Imo/Photothek via Getty Images)

Nelson Mandela International Day is observed on July 18 each year to honor the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, the former President of South Africa and an iconic figure in the global struggle for freedom, equality, and justice. Mandela is best known for his leadership in the fight against apartheid, a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination in South Africa.

Meaning:

The day is a reminder of Mandela’s lifelong dedication to promoting peace, justice, human rights, and the empowerment of marginalized people. It celebrates his contributions to humanity and encourages people to take action in their communities, inspired by his example.

The day is not just about commemorating Mandela’s life but also about encouraging individuals to volunteer and contribute to society, no matter how small their efforts might seem. The theme of the day is based on “Take Action, Inspire Change,” urging people to act with the spirit of service and compassion.

Reason for “67”:

The 67 refers to the 67 years of Mandela’s life that he dedicated to the struggle for social justice. Mandela spent 67 years fighting against apartheid, advocating for peace, serving in public office, and working toward reconciliation in South Africa. The number 67 serves as a call to action, asking people to contribute 67 minutes of their time to make a positive difference in their communities. This could include activities like helping the less fortunate, volunteering, or contributing to social causes.

Key Points:

• Nelson Mandela’s legacy: He was a champion of human rights, peace, and equality, and he played a key role in ending apartheid in South Africa.
• 67 minutes of action: This is a way for individuals and organizations to honor Mandela’s legacy by taking action, however big or small, to improve the world around them.
• Global Impact: The day is not just celebrated in South Africa but is recognized globally as a day of service and social change.

In essence, Nelson Mandela Day encourages people to reflect on Mandela’s life and use that inspiration to make a positive impact in their communities, helping to continue his work for justice and equality.

Mandela once said:

“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”

So, on Mandela Day, people are encouraged to give 67 minutes of their time—one minute for each year of his public service—to do something good. It can be small acts of kindness, community clean-ups, helping someone in need, or even just listening to someone who feels unheard.

67-Minute Activity Ideas for Mandela Day

1. Community Clean-Up Walk
   Grab gloves, bin bags, and do a local litter clean-up. Parks, pavements, or even your school or office surroundings—it’s simple, but makes a visible impact.
2. Write Letters to Elders or Isolated Individuals
   Spend time writing kind, uplifting letters or cards to people in care homes or shelters. Human connection can be powerful, especially for those feeling forgotten.
3. Create Care Packs for Those in Need
   Put together small care packs with snacks, toiletries, or warm socks and donate them to local shelters or hand them out directly to those living on the streets.
4. Plant Something—Literally Grow Hope
   Whether it’s trees, flowers, or a small veggie garden—planting something for the future is a great way to honor Mandela’s legacy of nurturing change.
5. Skill-Share Session
   Encourage group members to teach each other something they’re good at—like basic budgeting, a language, or creative skills. It’s a way of giving through knowledge.
6. Make a “Wall of Hope” or Mandela Quote Mural
   Get creative and have everyone write something positive, a promise to act, or a favorite Mandela quote on a wall or board—something that lasts beyond just one day.
7. Visit a Local Non-Profit or Volunteer
   Offer 67 minutes of your time at a local charity—sorting donations, helping in the kitchen, reading to kids, or just supporting wherever there’s a need.

It’s a way of keeping his legacy alive—not just for a day.