Celebrations take place around the world on July 18 in honor of Nelson Mandela’s birthday. From concerts to conversations, these events are inspired by the legacy of this global leader and former President of South Africa. And though Mandela passed away in 2013, his passion for transforming the world continues on International Mandela Day, an annual holiday declared by the United Nations (UN) in 2009.
#Postcards4Change, a collaborative of nonprofits, kicked of a call to action on Wednesday with a series of intergenerational listening circles. Their message to youth activists: how can we lend support and join your efforts. The shared mission: changing the world.
The outcome of Wednesday’s conversations are discussed during a free, interactive livestream on July 18. Three generations of global leaders from three continents will discuss how generations can come together to take action on issues that impact us all. To learn more and RSVP visit this Eventbrite page.
Perhaps the most powerful message was one delivered by Mandela himself: “It always seems impossible until it is done.”

Tune in to show support for today’s youth and join their fight to save our planet.
Not to miss that morning, is an event from the UN with the organization’s Secretary-General António Guterres delivering the 18th Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture at 9 am EDT. Its focus: “Tackling the Inequality Pandemic: A New Social Contract for a New Era,” which examines layers of inequality that have been exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Whichever event you choose to participate in, prepare to come away inspired.
#Postcards4Change is a collaboration between several nonprofit organizations including the Global Children’s Campaign, Mandela Mile, MasterPeace, XR South Africa, UNSA Spain, Kahlifa Ihler Institute, Keep Families Giving Foundation, Generations for Health and the Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Network.
Mandela Day: Sources
Postcards4Change
United Nations’ Nelson Mandela International Day