Madiba changed lives through his continued fight for peace, justice, freedom and equality and, as an NGO that strives to improve the lives of children and ensure that quality education is available to all, we will never forget the words of the great leader himself: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
As we say farewell to a man who most genuinely embodied the characteristics of courage, equality, dignity and integrity, we make a commitment that he will not be forgotten. And although he is now taking “a moment to rest … to look back on the distance” he has come, he will live on in our hearts, and we will continue to walk the road he made for us.
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 Rolihlahla Mandela
