A Mandela Day long walk to freedom and the finish line

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Image credit: Jaishree Narain-Govender

Once again, in a gesture that transcends time, the spirit of Nelson Mandela enveloped South Africa’s vibrant rainbow nation on Saturday, 20 July 2024, during the 2024 Mandela Day Walk and Run event. Held in honor of his enduring legacy, this annual celebration—proudly sponsored by BP South Africa and Balwin Properties—draws thousands together to embrace the ideals of unity, service, and compassion.

The thoughtfully designed route allowed participants to pass by iconic landmarks, including the Nelson Mandela Foundation and Mandela’s former residence. As dawn broke, casting a warm glow on the enthusiastic crowd, a sea of participants set off with a rhythm of hope and joy. To the energetic strains of Johnny Clegg’s “Asimbonanga” reverberating from towering speakers, 10,000 walkers and runners moved forward, their collective stride embodying Mandela’s vision of a harmonious and giving community. Here, we present a series of images capturing the spirited essence of the event.

“It is in the character of growth that we should learn from both pleasant and unpleasant experiences.”

Nelson Mandela

“It is not our diversity which divides us; it is not our ethnicity, or religion or culture that divides us. Since we have achieved our freedom, there can only be one division amongst us: between those who cherish democracy and those who do not.”

Nelson Mandela

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”

Nelson Mandela.

 “There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered.”

Nelson Mandela

“Live life as though nobody is watching, and express yourself as though everyone is listening.”

Nelson Mandela

“Sometimes it falls upon a generation to be great, you can be that generation.”

Nelson Mandela

“Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”

Nelson Mandela

“A good head and good heart are always a formidable combination. But when you add to that a literate tongue or pen, then you have something very special.”

Nelson Mandela

“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

“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”

Nelson Mandela

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”

Nelson Mandela

“One cannot be prepared for something while secretly believing it will not happen.”

Nelson Mandela

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”

Nelson Mandela

“Lead from the back — and let others believe they are in front.”

Nelson Mandela
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Jaishree Narain-Govender
Jaishree Narain-Govender is a whimsical photographer with a knack for turning everyday moments into vibrant stories. With a playful eye and an adventurous spirit, she captures the magic in the mundane, making each shot a delightful surprise.

Jaishree Narain-Govender is a whimsical photographer with a knack for turning everyday moments into vibrant stories. With a playful eye and an adventurous spirit, she captures the magic in the mundane, making each shot a delightful surprise.

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