Enkosi Madiba

*Image by Matthew Willman Photography

It is with great pride and thanksgiving that IkamvaYouth salutes late former president, Nelson Mandela.

We honour a formidable  statesman who fought tirelessly for the freedom of our nation. He has left an impeccable example and we are privileged to have been graced by his presence and sacrifice.

IkamvaYouth shares Madiba’s heart for children and education and endeavour to implement the many values he left behind.

Here is what some of our staff had to say in reflection and remembrance:

It is due to Madiba’s vision for our country that we do the work we do, and indeed are even able to work together, side by side. We’re so fortunate to be living in this time. Our generation is doubly blessed: we have lived to see incredible changes in our country, and we have the opportunity to contribute towards realising the vision that sparked them. Equality between races, socio-economic transformation, justice and peace are the ultimate outcomes of vision 2030, and I feel so honored to be working towards these ideals with each of you.    

– Joy Olivier, Director

As Ikamvanites, we agree with Madiba that ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world’. We keep saying education is the passport out of poverty; the youth pulling themselves and each other out of poverty through education; and in our vision for 2030 we have declared a dignified living for all youths through education.    

– Patrick Mashanda, Gauteng District Coordinator

It has been unbelievably sad…we knew this day would come. It’s been a highly emotional time of reflection for many people. It makes one evaluate his/her life; Mandela has been the epitome of service and humility; what most of us aspire to be but all we can ever hope to do is to try our best. Looking back at the choices one has made; I would say that working for IY is the right choice; a meaningful and worthy cause. Thank you to all who have made it possible. In his inaugural speech; May 1994; he said “We enter into a covenant that we shall build a society in which all South Africans; both black and white; will be able to walk tall; without any fear in their hearts; assured of their inalienable right to human dignity-a rainbow nation at peace with itself and the world”. Joy how old were you then? Nine years after that speech you and Makhosi became a practical part of that covenant; setting in motion a process of acquiring dignity for all; through education…it may not be the easiest way of life; but we all know that it is the most rewarding.

– Monica Canca, Joza District Coordinator

Today we celebrate the life of our very own South African legend as delegates from all over the world and South  Africans from all corners make their way to Soccer City despite the dull and rainy weather in Johannesburg for the State Memorial Service for Madiba. This world wide support encapsulates the very man that Tata was. We hope that we are reminded of the ideals that Tata stood for , that unity, peace and reconciliation will once again be a trademark for the South African people.

– Palese More, HR Coordinator

I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken a moment here to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surrounds me, to look back on the distance I have come. But I can only rest for a moment, for with freedom come responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not ended.”

Nelson Mandela

1918 – 2013