Join us this July 18th to celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day, a day for celebrating the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela and his achievements transforming oppression, struggle and subjugation into reconciliation, social justice and unity.
This year’s theme is “Uniting to Combat Poverty and Inequity” as launched by the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Individuals, organisations and communities worldwide are asked to stand for justice and make a lasting impact wherever they are.
Nelson Mandela Foundation CEO Dr. Mbongiseni Buthelezi asks the world “to respond with action, to tackle poverty, fight inequity and build a society grounded in dignity, justice and shared humanity.”
“We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference.” – Nelson Mandela
What is Nelson Mandela International Day?
Nelson Mandela International Day is a day that honours Mandela’s legacy and encourages individuals to take action for social justice, human rights and fundamental freedoms.
This celebration day is observed on Nelson Mandela’s birthday. It was officially declared by the United Nations in November 2009, serving as a global call to action, emphasising that everyone has the power to change the world in a positive way.
Mandela Day honours Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of public service and inspires people to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to help other people. This encourages community service and volunteering, reflecting Mandela’s commitment to social justice, equality and human rights.
“It is easy to break down and destroy. The heroes are those who make peace and build.” – Nelson Mandela
How can we uphold Mandela’s legacy?
Mandela’s legacy is a call to rekindle our global commitment to peace, justice and human dignity. This year’s theme reminds us that the power to end poverty and inequality is in our hands.
Mandela believed in the power of collective, grassroots action – he knew that ordinary people could change the world and create lasting change, starting from your local community.
Let us all be guided by Mandela’s commitment to freedom, justice, equality and the rights that belong to everyone on earth.
“As long as poverty, injustice, and gross inequality persist in our world, none of us can truly rest.” – Nelson Mandela
What can you do with your 67 minutes?
- Show support for this day by sharing posts on social media using the hashtags #MandelaDay and #ActionAgainstPoverty.
- Volunteer with a community organisation such as your local food bank or soup kitchen to have a positive impact.
- Support a charity – through donations and giving your time or expertise. We have a range of positions available in research, media, communications and technology at The Community Revolution. Volunteering with us can help you make a difference, build professional skills and meet like-minded individuals.
- Attend the Mandela Day Walk and Run, or the Virtual Walk and Run, to participate in a global movement.
Why does tackling poverty and inequality matter?
Mandela’s mission as an anti-apartheid revolutionary was establishing equality and freedom for all women, men and children. He stood for the fundamental rights of all humans, irrespective of race, nationality or gender.
Nelson Mandela embodied the spirit of Ubuntu, underlining the significance of community and connection within the global population. The phrase “I am because we are” reflects his understanding of the Nguni Bantu term and the philosophy behind personal well-being being intricately tied to the well-being of others.
There is no equal future without freedom for everybody.
“To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” – Nelson Mandela
How does Nelson Mandela International Day align with the values of The Community Revolution CIC?
The team at TCR believes that tackling poverty and inequality is crucial. By providing skills programmes and implementing sustainable development projects, we help drive social innovation, entrepreneurship, and education in underserved communities, addressing poverty at its roots and fostering equality.
TCR projects that help support the mission of Mandela Day:
1. Digital Skills and Employability Programme
The Digital Skills and Employability Programme equips underrepresented groups, especially ethnic minorities, women and young people, with key digital literacy and technology training. This opens pathways to higher-quality, safer and more sustainable employment opportunities. Through practical skills development, participants gain the tools required to thrive in today’s digital economy, contributing to a more equal and prosperous society.
2. CERC-DL/African SCENe
The Community Energy Resource Centre for Digital Learning (CERC-DL) initiative brings digital infrastructure and capacity-building programmes to communities lacking access to clean, affordable energy. By creating spaces for community learning and digital literacy, CERC-DL empowers people to take control of their futures through education and technology.
The African SCENe is just one project that forms part of the wider CERC-DL initiative. It focuses on localised, culturally relevant digital learning that helps communities grow through sustainable energy access and inclusive digital education.
3. Moringa Initiative: Sustainable Agriculture in Ghana
In collaboration with the Ghana Permaculture Institute, TCR’s Moringa Initiative focuses on sustainable agriculture and value-chain development. It aims to empower rural communities, including rural farms, young people and women, fighting inequality and poverty by building technical and processing capacity and access to international markets.
Join our community
Celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day with us today. Join our community in standing up for an end to poverty and inequality – starting on your doorstep.
Follow us on social media for updates. Take part in live community engagement sessions, subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed and motivated, and explore ways of contributing to our ongoing projects.
Together, we can make the world a fairer and freer place.
