Nelson Mandela International Day, 18 JULY 2023

FOR FREEDOM, JUSTICE AND DEMOCRACY 

State President of South Africa – Nelson Mandela (Photo by Thomas Imo/Photothek via Getty Images)

By Marilyn Le Feuvre

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was born on 18 July 1918 (and he died in 2013, aged 95). He gave 67 years of his life to public service- 27 of those in prison on Robben Island.

He said:

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

The NELSON MANDELA INTERNATIONAL DAY is an annual global celebration to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela. This day is a call to action for individuals, communities and organisations to take time to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles and then come out of your comfort zone and go and make a positive impact in your community.

Spend 67 minutes (because Mandela gave 67 years), being helpful to someone else, volunteer and practically lend a hand, where possible.

“ DO WHAT YOU CAN, WITH WHAT YOU HAVE, WHERE YOU ARE”