Mandela’s message must forever inspire us all to better things

Today, 18 July, the world celebrates the birthday of the late Nelson Mandela, the most renowned lead of the fight against South Africa’s brutish imposition of Apartheid and most beloved President of his native country.

Following his release after serving 27 years in prison, Mandela moved on to become South Africa’s first black president. On ascending to the presidency many thought that he would immediately set about exacting revenge on the former Apartheid supporters. He did no such thing. Instead he pursued a path of truth and reconciliation for all of the peoples of the country, being fully inclusive.

Perhaps one of the most impactful moments in global history was Mandela’s venturing onto the competition arena during South Africa’s hosting of the Rugby World Cup in 1995, wearing the Springboks jersey. At the time there was only one black player on the national team given the history of the sport in the country. The entire arena eventually shouted his name, an endorsement of his leadership.

Nelson’s most popular quote on the importance of sport to the world was delivered on 5 December 2013.