Mandela thanks those who helped make a difference

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Pretoria - Former President Nelson Mandela has thanked those who gave up their time to contribute towards making a difference to people who are less fortunate in life on Mandela Day, 18 July.

His video message was played at a function to mark the tenth anniversaries of both the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the Vodacom Foundation on Tuesday.

In his video message Madiba said: "We have been pleased, and honoured, by the way Mandela Day has been responded to. People have made it an occasion not to focus on one man, but rather to work with each other in communities to make the world a better place.

"Most importantly, they have gone beyond 67 minutes, or one day, and have found ways to promote continuing work that will make a difference. I thank each one of you who made a contribution. We value your continued support."

Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Verne Harris, said: "The key measure of success for us remains the difference that we can make in the world."

He said the life-work of Madiba was honoured and his legacy made, not by memorialisation of him, but by enduring commitments, big and small, to making the world a better place for all.

"Mandela Day mobilised energies which are critical to the rebuilding of social fabric in South Africa and beyond."

During the event, Kaya FM and the City of Matlosana were each awarded R67 000 for their efforts in promoting Mandela Day.

The radio station is to donate the money to community organisations. The Vodacom Foundation had given it to the Nelson Mandela Foundation to mark the organisations tenth birthdays.

The amounts of R67 000 are symbolic of the 67 minutes people were asked to give of their time on Mandela Day in honour of the 67 years Mandela has given in service.-