In celebration of Black History Month, Weber State University will host Ndaba Mandela, grandson of former South African President Nelson Mandela, as this month’s WSU Convocations guest speaker.
Presented in the Shepherd Union Ballrooms, Ndaba Mandela will share his life story and experiences with students and community members Feb. 10 at 12 p.m.
“This year, we have a unique opportunity to examine the impact of Nelson Mandela, world leader from South Africa, on the American stage through the speech, action and memory of his grandson, Ndaba,” said Adrienne Gillespie Andrew, WSU assistant to the president for diversity.
The first democratically elected South African president, Nelson Mandela is an iconic figure remembered for his 30-year imprisonment for his fight against South African apartheid.
He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 for the peaceful termination of the apartheid regime, according to The Official Web Site of the Nobel Prize. He passed away at 95 years old.
Continuing the legacy of his beloved grandfather, Ndbaba Mandela will shed light on misconceptions that surround Africa and peaceful unions among nations, according to the official statement.
He is the co-founder of the Africa Rising Foundation, an organization committed to creating a positive image of Africa and increasing its potential for growth, according to the American Program Bureau website.
As a WSU Convocations speaker, Ndaba Mandela will discuss several topics, such as the African nation, HIV/AIDS, creating successful charities, promoting education and employment for youth and the legacy of his grandfather.
He will also talk about his experiences as the grandson of Nelson Mandela and share his message that one person can make a difference in the world.
He was recently named as one of the “28 Men of Change” for 2014 by the Black Entertainment Television for carrying on his inspiring grandfather’s message of peace and unity.
Ndaba also helped create the International Day of Happiness at the United Nations and is currently organizing the 95th celebration of Nelson Mandela Day, according to the American Program Bureau.
According to Tara Peris-Caputo, WSU assistant director of Student Involvement and Leadership, Ndbaba Mandela is an “international icon who mobilizes and rallies so many people around a positive message of peace and happiness.”
Weber State will commemorate Black History Month by hosting other events that celebrate African-American history, culture and achievements throughout February.
For more information, visit http://www.weber.edu/WSUToday/020315_NdabaMandela.html
