Nelson Mandela – His Perseverance and Passion Changed The World
Nelson Mandela is an African civil rights leader from South Africa who changed the world for the better. His lifelong goal, similar to Martin Luther King, Jr., was to achieve equal rights for non-white people in his country.
He was so dedicated to this cause, that he spent a large portion of his life in prison for his beliefs. While in prison, he became an inspirational leader and symbol for his people. After 27 years in prison, he was released. Once he got out of prison, he continued his work to support equal treatment of non-whites.
In 1993 he won the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. His hard work paid off further when all South African citizens were allowed to vote in the 1994 election. Incredibly, Mandela won and became president of South Africa! Mandela is one of the most inspiring people of the 20th century and a great example of how perseverance and passion can change the world.
Watch his incredible story:
Inspiring Quotes from Nelson Mandela
- “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
- “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”
- “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
- “There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”
Additional Resources:
- Here is a short biography that tells the inspirational story of Nelson Mandela.
- Visit the Mandela Day website to learn more about him and how you can contribute to changing the world for the better
Topics for Discussion:
- Do you think you’d be brave enough to stand up for what is right even if it meant you’d be arrested?
- Do you find Nelson Mandela to be inspiring? Why or why not?
- Can you think of any people today that are not treated with equal rights and respect? What can you do about it?
Take Action:
- In celebration of Mandela Day, give up 67 minutes of your day to help others. Why 67? To commemorate the 67 years Nelson Mandela gave to the fight for human rights. Although Mandela Day is celebrated each July 18th, there is on reason you cannot do it today!
- Have a talk with your parents or grandparents about their experience with equal rights in your country.
