The Foundation

About the Foundation

The Nelson Mandela Foundation leads the development of a living legacy that captures the vision and values of Mr Nelson Mandela’s life and work.

Through the creation of strategic networks and partnerships, the Nelson Mandela Foundation directs resources, knowledge and practice to add value and demonstrate new possibilities.

The Nelson Mandela Foundation embodies the spirit of reconciliation, ubuntu, and social justice. Our work is a celebration of Mr Mandela’s life.

Read more

Foundation News

Madiba and Esther Barsel share a laugh at Mr Mandela's birthday lunch

Madiba mourns the death of Esther Barsel

Oct 8, 2008 – Almost three months to the day after joining her old friend and comrade, Nelson Mandela and others, for a 90th birthday lunch, life-long activist Esther Barsel passed away in Johannesburg on Monday, October 6.

Mr Mandela is presented the June 16 commemorative statue by Ms Sithole

Madiba receives June 16 commemorative statue

Sep 30, 2008 – Former President Nelson Mandela was today presented with a statue from Antoinette Sithole, the sister of the late Hector Pieterson, the first victim of police bullets in the 16 June 1976 uprising.

The statue, which is based on the famous photograph by Sam Nzima of Mbuyisa Makhubu carrying the wounded 12-year-old Pieterson with Ms Sithole running alongside, includes a new element – that of Mr Mandela standing in front of the group with his arms outstretched.

Engraved on the plinth are the words “Celebrating the truism that each generation stands on the shoulders of the achievements of previous generations”. 

Winners of a recent competition were rewarded when they got to meet their heroes Nelson Mandela and Albertina Sisulu.

Competition winners meet their heroes

Sep 23, 2008 – Twelve learners from across South Africa, who were winners in a competition about Nelson Mandela and Albertina Sisulu, met their two heroes at an awards ceremony in Johannesburg.

The learners, ranging in age from six to 18, won prizes for their creative expressions in honour of the two struggle stalwarts in their 90th years. Mr Mandela turned 90 on July 18 this year and MaSisulu turns 90 on October 21.