Rolihlahla Mandela was born in Mvezo, Transkei, on July 18,1918 to parents Nonqaphi Nosekeni and Nkosi Mphakanyiswa Galda Mandela.  Rolihlahla Mandelawas raised in a home with a family that always worked towards bettering the future. Mandela’s childhood was peaceful, he spent time on cattle herding and other rural pursuits. He was one of thirteen children, and had three older brothers.  His school teacher called him Nelson and the name stuck with him for life.

From an early age, Mandela demonstrated his passion for fighting for the rights of his people. He was greatly inspired by the stories he heard about his ancestors during their times of struggle. It is through determination and dedication that Mandela accomplished many of his goals including an end to apartheid by inspiring a multi-cultural nation to stand together.

Mandela is known as one of the great moral and political leaders of our times; an international hero whose lifelong dedication to the fight against oppression in South Africa won him the Nobel Peace Prize and the presidency of his country.

Nelson Mandela fought for freedom in South Africa. Not only did Nelson Mandela change the world, he also inspired people to change the world too. He was just an average boy living in a small town in South Africa who became one of the world’s most iconic figures. Through challenges and hard times, he inspired people around the world to do right by all.

His quote

“EDUCATION IS THE MOST POWERFUL WEAPON WHICH YOU CAN USE TO CHANGE THE WORLD”

is known around the world.

After 27 years in prison he became President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. Nelson Mandela is one of the greatest moral and political leaders of our time.

#MandelaDay