Mandela Day is an opportunity to celebrate the life of one of the world’s great statesmen.  Mandela committed his life to serving the community, which is why Mandela Day is designed to be more than just a symbolic gesture. Participants are encouraged to do their bit to help make a real change.

18 July, Nelson Mandela’s birthday, has been chosen as Mandela Day worldwide.

It is not a holiday; it’s an opportunity to make a difference. Mandela devoted 67 years to helping the community and, on Mandela Day, each of us is asked to contribute 67 minutes to helping others.

Nelson Mandela Day – Campaign logo 2010

New York City was the global host of last year’s very successful inaugural Mandela Day. Mandela Day 2010 is to be hosted by Madrid, and the Spanish capital will present concerts, workshops and exhibitions. South Africans can be proud that Mandela Day is helping to spread the message of tolerance, non-discrimination and ubuntu throughout the world.

How you help is up to you. The Mandela Day organiser’s specifically chose not to dictate what you should do. They only ask that your contribution helps others.

For example, the Ubuntu Festival, taking place on the Mandela Day weekend, has arranged for celebrity chefs and participants to cook quality food for Cape Town’s homeless shelters.

You don’t have to attend an official event to help out. Individuals and organisations across South Africa have committed to do something meaningful to fulfil their 67 minutes.

Cape Town is a great place to live or visit, but the sad reality is that there are many less fortunate people in this beautiful city. That is no reason to give up in despair: Nelson Mandela has taught us that individual actions make a real difference. Truly honour Mandela by following in his footsteps.