Madiba, The Miracle Maker Who Became The First Black President of South Africa

Originally Published May 16, 2022

Rolihlahla, essentially meaning troublemaker—is famously known as Nelson Mandela. Thanks to one of his teachers who gave him a “Christian” name since it was normal to have an “English” name for kids coming from ethnic groups when white people find it hard to pronounce their real names. Long after experiencing the rite of passage through circumcision with a spear, Mandela bumped into a far larger nemesis in his life wherein he would symbolize change.

Claiming that he is not a prophet but rather a public servant for the people, he rejected the offer of chieftainship to become a lawyer. In a country where black people weren’t allowed to vote, Mandela overtly fought white supremacy. Despite the fact that only 20% of South Africa’s population were white people, they were still in control of the land, the government, and the economy. This division and inequalities were led by the Apartheid through violence and silencing.

Nelson, among the trifecta of 20th-century leaders, showed a vivid picture of bravery early on—being one of the first black lawyers. After fleeing to Johannesburg to avoid a pre-arranged marriage, a rough journey to dismantle the Apartheid regime began. From peaceful protests things downturned to armed struggle. Mandela was first sentenced to 5 years in prison after being arrested in a roadblock and after countless charges against him, he almost spent a lifetime in maximum security. An opportunity spent by Nelson to read and write tirelessly albeit having his eyesight permanently damaged. Outside his cell, even photos of him were banned.

27 years have passed, and a country of many races transformed. Mandela was released after nearly 3 decades of fighting for a multiethnic government. He reconciled and insisted that “The world will judge us if we do not do what is just and correct.” Is it possible to live as One People? Yes, not for the benefit of a small clique, but for all of us. Ostensibly, if you are willing to face anything for your principles because you have a duty to perform, you might actually win the Nobel Prize like Mandela. As per Nelson, it is more than just being prepared to die. He had to endure the pain of not being allowed to attend his son’s funeral while in prison. He had to study Afrikaans just to speak with the guards and offer them legal advice as a practicing lawyer. Most of all, encourage everyone around you to study to fight exploitation and oppression. There is no use in trying to change others if you yourself aren't the change. The ability and quality to be a leader require the acquisition of the best instrument in society which is education. Once fulfilled, we will grasp harmony and equal opportunities.

4 years after the release of Mandela he was elected as a president. It took them 40 years to end the Apartheid. There was no hope of defeating the enemy but they fought; not to serve themselves but to serve the nation. The constant questioning of illiteracy and poverty revealed the educational crisis as a political crisis. Forever live on your knees or die standing and screaming at the top of your lungs: “Never again will someone be oppressed by another!”

After death his dignity still roars, being the most inspiring figure of human rights. The minute that you give yourself for the sake of others, something happens. In one of his speeches, he said that he wasn’t a saint unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying. Millions of people were watching thinking that they would never see Mandela alive. To date, we are still celebrating the people-oriented Mandela Day—observed on his birthday; it was created to honor his legacy by promoting community service around the world.

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