Mandela inspired the world – Jews included

BERTIE LUBNER

Bertie Lubner, chairman of outreach organisation Afrika Tikkun, on Friday issued a statement in tribute of former President Nelson Mandela who passed away on the evening of December 5. Mandela was patron-in-chief of Afrika Tikkun.

Today we join the nation in mourning, as one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century passes on. Madiba, the great hero of our time, will forever remain a symbol of hope, freedom, reconciliation and love. We will celebrate his life and his achievements, honouring his legacy through our continued work with children; a cause that he believed in.

Although he was a public figure and a national icon, we know that he was also a dearly beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather to his family. We stand with them in their grief at this time, offering our condolences and support to those he has left behind while respecting their privacy and their right to mourn.

Madiba was a great friend to me and to Afrika Tikkun as an organisation. I fondly remember the day he visited our project in Orange Farm, calling what he saw a miracle, and agreeing to support us as our patron-in-chief.

Without the inspiration Madiba provided, and without the support he selflessly gave to us for so many years, Afrika Tikkun would not be the organisation it is today.

Nelson Mandela’s love for children was well known. His concern for one child was just as important as his concern for the nation. He understood that they are South Africa’s hope and future, and he shared our vision for all children to have access to decent education and equal opportunities.

He was a man like no other, irreplaceable, and his passing will be keenly felt by all South Africans and the world.

Rest in peace my friend.

* Afrika Tikkun is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the eradication of poverty by caring for vulnerable children in townships through their cradle-to-career approach. Using a holistic development model, Afrika Tikkun runs programmes that address the various needs of township children