SA Man of the Week - Nelson Mandela

Our Man of the Week goes to a very special man: Nelson Mandela. He is, without a doubt, the most important figure in South African history, who’s touched the lives of millions and who fought for many years to change the face of our country for the better. Nelson Mandela, or Madiba as many like to call him, celebrates his 93rd birthday today.

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure." - Nelson Mandela

It is reported that he is spending his special day with his family, in his birthplace, Qunu.

Nelson Mandela brought together a nation that was once separated by apartheid. As part of his mission to bring freedom to the lives of all South Africans, he spent 27 years in prison after he was convicted for attempting to overthrow the apartheid government. After enduring harsh conditions in jail, he was finally released in 1990 and just four years later, he was elected as South Africa’s president. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, which was shared with FW De Klerk.

The Nobel Peace Prize 1993 was awarded jointly to Nelson Mandela and Frederik Willem de Klerk "for their work for the peaceful termination of the apartheid regime, and for laying the foundations for a new democratic South Africa"

Despite his many years of struggle and imprisonment, Mandela remained optimistic. U.S. President Barack Obama’s wife, Michelle, met Mandela last month and said the icon is “a beacon for the global community and for those who fight for justice”.

President Obama said in a statement: "Madiba sets the standard for service worldwide, whether we are students, shopkeepers or farmers, Cabinet ministers or presidents. He calls on us to serve our fellow human beings, and better our communities."

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Mandela Day is celebrated on the 18th of July, and is an annual international commemoration day adopted by the United Nations where individuals, communities and organisations are asked to donate 67 minutes to doing something for others. Mandela devoted 67 years to public service, so it is simply just a minute for every year that Mandela devoted! Local politicians have promised  to do their 67 minutes of volunteer work, and leaders from all over the world, have also joined in.

Mandela with his wonderfully pleasant and caring nature, has shown to the world his kind soul and serves as an inspiration to us all. We at SA Men wish Madiba a very happy birthday and may he continue to shine his light on our country for many more years.

Written by Cassandra Rowley for SA Men