MASASA MBANGENI
(Thembeka, Scandal)
How do you plan to celebrate South Africa’s historical icon today?
It’s very important to me that we have days like Mandela Day to celebrate the life and legacy of the father of our nation. I think taking 67 minutes of one day of our life is the least we can do for a man who spent 27 years in prison for the freedom we enjoy. I will be doing my bit at the Orango Tangos Kiddies Play Centre. A friend is hosting a play day for kids and they have invited kids from children’s home as well.
What were you doing when Nelson Mandela was sworn in as South Africa’s first democratic president on May 10, 1994?
I was seven when Mr Mandela was sworn in as president, but I vividly remember watching it on television. Judging from the heightened emotions of my father and other family members, I figured it was a really momentous occasion for our country.
How would you describe his legacy?
Mr Mandela remains the ultimate example of leadership and service to Africa and the world at large. For me, his contribution and strides to building leadership excellence on the continent form part of his living legacy. His altruism, humility and strength are characteristics South Africans can learn from. As a recipient of the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship (2009), I have had first-hand experience of the importance of education to Madiba.
One could learn a lot from the Nobel Peace Prize winner. If you could take a page out of our former president’s book, what philosophy would you adopt?
I would live my life with honour, loyalty and truth. He taught us to understand that being vulnerable doesn’t mean the absence of strength and to be of service to life in every shape, colour and creed it manifests itself in.
Lastly, what is your birthday message for Madiba?
What words does one use to a man who has given so much and asked for nothing in return other? A heartfelt thank you and happy birthday!
KATLEGO DANKE
(Dineo Mashaba, Generations)
How do you plan to celebrate South Africa’s historical icon today?
Mandela Day is a great day set aside not to just to honour one the greatest South Africans who ever lived, but a wonderful opportunity to give back to the communities we live in. I plan to give my 67 minutes to the Cheesekids Organisation, who are giving back through one of their projects.
What were you doing when Nelson Mandela was sworn in as South Africa’s first democratic president on May 10, 1994?
I remember my father telling me: “Pay attention. This is history being made. You will later be able to say you’ve lived through a great historical moment.” And he was absolutely right.
How would you describe his legacy?
Never before has any human being been the catalyst for so much positivity in South Africa. His legacy speaks for itself. It is a true testament of humility, endurance, spiritual strength and a love for all.
One could learn a lot from the Nobel Peace Prize winner. If you could take a page out of our former president’s book, what philosophy would you adopt?
I would adopt his philosophy of forgiveness and humility. I believe the power of forgiveness is the most untapped and misunderstood strength of human relations. We have a lot to learn from u-Tata. But it also goes hand-in-hand with the humility to understand that, after all, we are all just human.
Lastly, what is your birthday message for Madiba?
Your life is a legacy for all in the world. May you be blessed with love for many years to come. You have given so much to the world; I hope you receive even more than you have graced us with.
KEKETSO SEMOKO
(Agnes Matabane, Isidingo)
How do you plan to celebrate South Africa’s historical icon today?
Mandela Day is a valued gesture towards a man who has demonstrated selflessness. I will be helping out my hometown hospice in Diepkloof, Soweto.
What were you doing when Nelson Mandela was sworn in as South Africa’s first democratic president on May 10, 1994?
I was glued to the television set. It was the most admirable day and I was full of pride for being a South African.
How would you describe his legacy?
He was all for peace and love for the world and fellow human beings.
One could learn a lot from the Nobel Peace Prize winner. If you could take a page out of our former president’s book, what philosophy would you adopt?
Once, he said that we are all like a meteor that passes by and that we must do our bit towards humanity while we can and are still here. That holds true for me.
Lastly, what is your birthday message for Madiba?
May God forever shine his light to the world through you! Wishing you a happy, restful day filled with love and laughter.
GABRIEL TEMUDZANI
(Chief Azwindini, Muvhango)
How do you plan to celebrate South Africa’s historical icon today?
Life is about giving, not receiving. I wish we could make Mandela day our daily practice. I will spend half of my day at an old age home in Roodepoort.
What were you doing when Nelson Mandela was sworn in as South Africa’s first democratic president on May 10, 1994?
I was in Venda, busy looking after livestock and all of a sudden there was a buzz with cars hooting, and I decided to join in without being sure of what was happening.
How would you describe his legacy?
He is a true leader, who led with integrity, honesty and peace – a trendsetter of a note. I just hope other African leaders will derive inspiration, or encouragement from his legacy.
One could learn a lot from the Nobel Peace Prize winner. If you could take a page out of our former president’s book, what philosophy would you adopt?
We can only un-chain our minds through reading and education; I would use education as my weapon.
Lastly, what is your birthday message for Madiba?
We thank God for giving us you as our saviour and true leader. Happy birthday Madiba, may you see and enjoy many more to come!
IVAN BOTHA
(Pieter, 7de Laan)
How do you plan to celebrate South Africa’s historical icon today?
I believe it’s one of the greatest charity events out there; it set an example of what we should and could be doing everyday of our lives.
What were you doing when Nelson Mandela was sworn in as South Africa’s first democratic president on May 10, 1994?
I was 11 years old and not into my politics – I think I was playing outside most likely.
How would you describe his legacy?
He stood for honesty and, in being true, he proved people can change for the better.
One could learn a lot from the Nobel Peace Prize winner. If you could take a page out of our former president’s book, what philosophy would you adopt?
To love all people equally, no matter what their skin colour.
Lastly, what is your birthday message for Madiba?
May you live to be a healthy 200; full of life, joy and peace!
lThe Tonight team wishes Madiba a very happy birthday!