City Press article

Tata Rolihlahla hits the big 91

By Nungo Ravele

South Africa's former president, Mr. Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, has been nothing but an amazing global icon. He has touched so many people's lives and continues to inspire people to this very day. His presence is heart felt and his touch brings such peace.

Madiba this year is being honored in a whole new way. 2009 marks the beginning of the annual Mandela Day. Nelson Mandela Day was carefully thought out by the Nelson Mandela Foundation collectively to provide an opportunity to transform the world through community service.

In order to celebrate his 67 years in politics and activism, people around the world are encouraged to dedicate 67 minutes of their time on July 18th. In those 67 minutes, one should lend a helping hand by touching someone's life that is less fortunate in any way possible. The power to make an imprint is in our hands. It should be an opportunity to fight poverty and promote peace and reconciliation.

Huge number of events will take place around the world on Mandela Day.
There is a concert, taking place at New York's Radio City Music Hall, which will boast a range of artists from all over the world, including Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, Wyclef Jean, Aretha Franklin, Loyiso Bala, Will.I.Am, Jesse McCartney, Cyndi Lauper, Zucchero, Josh Groban, Baaba Maal, Angelique Kidjo and the Soweto Gospel Choir. There are many more guests invited like Queen Latifa, Freshlyground, Morgan Freeman, Forrest Whitaker and many more.

Around South Africa alone, there are around 56 listed events on www.nelsonmandela.org/
One of the main events is in Johannesburg at Mary Fitzgerald Square, in Newtown.
The theme is “Working together for the common good of our nation.”
Artists like Winnie Khumalo, Arthur, Chommie, Zamajobe, Kwela Tebza and Kunle Ayo from Nigeria will be present.
Performances by Taliphani (Venda Dance), TK Dances and Sechaba will entertain the mass audiences throught the day.
The event is on July 18th from 10am.
Free