Nelson Mandela has many accolades. He’s an iconic figure that triumphed over South Africa’s apartheid regime. He was a human rights lawyer, a prisoner of conscience, and an international peacemaker. And he was the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa (no biggie). So you see why the United Nations General Assembly would want to celebrate his life. Commemorated on July 18—Nelson Mandela’s birthday—Nelson Mandela International Day celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make an impact. So, in honor of his 67 years of public service, the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the UN asks that you spend 67 minutes of your time helping others.
Nelson Mandela International Day - Thursday, July 18, 2024
Nelson Mandela International Day timeline
- July 18, 2009
Nelson Mandela International Day begins
The first Nelson Mandela International Day is held in New York.
- 1994
Mr. President
Mandela's elected President of South Africa and serves in office until 1999.
- 1990
Free — finally!
Mandela leaves prison after 27 years.
- 1963
Prisoner #46664
Mandela is jailed for leading the liberation movement against apartheid. He is referred to by his inmate number.
- July 18, 1918
Centennial
It's a moment to mark Mandela's 100th birthday.
5 Things You Should Know About Nelson Mandela
Legal career
Mandela was one of South Africa's first black lawyers.
Yet another first
Mandela was also South Africa's first black president.
A Nobel Prize
Mandela was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his influential work in ending apartheid.
Real name
Mandela's first name is actually Rolihlahla, but was nicknamed Nelson by one of his school teachers.
A loving nickname
Many South Africans referred to Mandela as "Madiba" — which is a title of respect.
How to Observe Nelson Mandela International Day
Use special hashtags
Currently there are two major hashtags associated with Nelson Mandela International Day. Show your support for the noble causes that gain attention on this day by using hashtags #MandelaDay and #ActionAgainstPoverty.
Volunteer
Nelson Mandela strongly advocated for helping each other. Get out in your community and lend a hand by devoting some time to volunteering. You can volunteer for as a little or as long as you want, and you're sure to feel good about the positive impact you have made afterwards.
Support a charity
There are a number of charities that contribute to the initiatives that were so close to Nelson Mandela's heart. Consider finding a charity that partakes in a mission that you find important, and contribute to the cause.
Why Nelson Mandela International Day is Important
He showed the way for all of us
Revolutionary. Philanthropist. President. Mandela lived a breathtaking life — showing impossible courage against all odds. He spent 27 years in prison. He rose to become South Africa's first black head of state — bringing down apartheid in the process. He won the Nobel Peace Prize. This holiday is a time to reflect upon all that one man might accomplish.
Mandela provided unlimited help for others
The Nelson Mandela Foundation, started in 1999, focused on things like rural development and school construction — while launching a prolonged and sustained attack on the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
He never stopped fighting for South Africa
South Africa suffers from high poverty — triggering issues with malnutrition, poor education, and unemployment. On Nelson Mandela International Day, many activists shine a light on the needs of the struggling country — hoping to provide a brighter future.
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