MADIBA VALUES BY CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE
Top 5 Madiba Values:
How To Align Yourself Embodying values of human dignity and peace, Nelson Mandela paved the way for South Africans and the global community.
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lmost 8 years since his passing, Nelson Mandela’s legacy and values continue to live on to this day, inspiring the lives of millions around the world. The key message he left behind was one of freedom, peace and justice - an all-inclusive lifetime endeavour that people of all races, cultures and creeds could support. As we celebrate Madiba this month, it is an opportune time to reflect and undergo introspection surrounding the values Madiba instilled in our country, and the rest of the world. Building peace and social solidarity “If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner.” – Nelson Mandela Madiba was known as a peacemaker across Africa. The trial held at Rivonia in 1964 bears testament to his continual fight against tyranny, corruption and oppression. A true leader, Madiba displayed intense commitment to social justice, and never lacked
26 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2021
courage, dignity or political astuteness. In this way, he remains an iconic role model for us and future generations in terms of maintaining peacebuilding initiatives and unifying communities. As citizens of South Africa, and the world, it is our duty to continue this legacy by upholding this value of peace and solidarity. We can do this by living consciously and remaining respectful of all human beings.
If people can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite Here, collaboration between leaders and citizens is an essential relationship that needs to be nurtured for stronger bonds to be formed and maintained. Only then will we be able to truly redress the many social injustices our people are faced with.
Freedom for all “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” – Nelson Mandela A freedom fighter unlike any other, and civil rights advocate, Nelson Mandela will always be known as a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary who dedicated his life to eradicating racism and fostering reconciliation in our nation. Embracing his enemies, Mandela taught us about forgiveness and fighting the good fight - a fight for freedom and inclusivity for all. Aligning ourselves with such wisdom and the ability to understand that all human beings deserve to be free from injustice, will go a long way in continuing to heal South Africa and further Madiba’s footprint. This means respecting and safeguarding one’s freedom and that of others too. Freedom and security of the person, of religion, belief, opinion and expression must be ensured for all.
