"We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference." Nelson Mandela said it best when he spoke those famous words of wisdom. Today, as countries across the globe join hands and hearts in observing the Nelson Mandela International Day- aptly themed Take Action, Inspire Change-the UN Information Centre for the Caribbean Area is calling on citizens to take 67 minutes out of their schedules to give of their time, resources, and talents to helping others. Amanda Laurence, National Information Officer, said today's observance is geared towards "getting everyone involved" in supporting Mandela's values and vision through public service.
"This year we encourage individuals, groups, offices and communities to find ways of serving each other and making T&T and the wider world a better place," she added. Library Assistant, Wayde Ramnarine, shared similar sentiments, noting that it was important for individuals to assist in any way they could for the betterment of humanity. "The principle behind it is to recognise the contribution of people in the public service...It's an hour for every minute of Mandela's work, he's been working for 67 years." July 18, also Mandela's birthday, was declared the Nelson Mandela International Day by the UN General Assembly, in November 2009, to commemorate the former South African President's long-standing commitment to promoting conflict resolution, race relations, human rights, reconciliation and gender equality.
Personifies courage
According to Ramnarine, the list of things one can do to assist others is limitless. "For example, you can volunteer your time to a cause. You can help out at a government office or you can even assist by picking up garbage in your community. There are so many ways you can give 67 minutes of your time to public service." Meanwhile, countries worldwide are observing the auspicious day with planned activities and celebrations. And in a video message released by UN Secretary-General Mr Ban Ki Moon to mark today's observance, he called Mandela "a man who personifies courage, integrity and a healer of nations" as he reminisced on an encounter with Mandela in 2009. "I had the honour of meeting him two years ago. I tried to thank him for all he has done. But he insisted that the credit lay with others. His humility continues to inspire," he said.
• About Nelson Mandela
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was born July 18, 1918 in Qunu, Eastern Cape. He served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999, and was the first South African president to be elected in a fully representative democratic election.
Before his presidency, Mandela was an anti-apartheid activist, and the leader of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC). In 1962, he was arrested and convicted of sabotage and other charges, and sentenced to life in prison. Mandela served 27 years in prison, spending many of these years on Robben Island.
Following his release on February 11, 1990, Mandela led his party in the negotiations that led to multi-racial democracy in 1994.As president from 1994 to 1999, he frequently gave priority to reconciliation.
In South Africa, Mandela is often known as Madiba, his Xhosa clan name: or as tata (Xhosa: father.)
He has received more than 250 awards over four decades, including the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize. Mandela is celebrating his 93rd birthday today.