Internationally the world celebrates the legacy of the former president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, on the 18th of July, his birthday.
On this day, in honour of Nelson Mandela and the vitally important impact he made in re-shaping our country, we are all encouraged to ruminate over and internalise that every one of us can instigate positive change.
We can all spread kindness, be empathetic and be intentional about how our deeds, actions and words influence our surroundings and communities.
Madiba's colourful shirts:
A reflection of hope
A quintessentially Madiba trademark was his colourful and bold patterned shirts. These shirts were a reflection of his character and spirit.
"I wear these shirts to represent my people and their struggle.
To represent the beautiful diverse cultures and traditions of Africa."
- Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela collaborated with fashion designer Sonwabile Ndamase to create his iconic shirts. Sonwabile has an encouraging mantra, in step with Mandela Day, that we can internalise as a reminder that everyone can contribute positively to our communities and the world at large.
"We all have something to give, something we can offer
to our community and our world"
- Sonwabile Ndamase
Create your own Mandela Shirt
If you could create a shirt for Nelson Mandela to reflect what you can offer your community and world, what would it look like?
Download your own Mandela Day shirt template below.
Onwards and Upwards!
The Otto Foundation Team