United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, and South Africa’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Baso Sangqu, as well as various dignitaries gathered at Grand Central’s Vanderbilt Hall to celebrate Mandela Day by signing the official Mandela Day Volunteer Scroll.

Tim Massey, 46664’s International Director, opened the proceedings by explaining that the 46664 Hyde Park event last year showed that the world wanted to celebrate the values and life of Nelson Mandela.

“This week in New York represents the beginning of the realisation of Mandela Day,” Massey said. “Thank you for coming here today to continue the work of Mr Mandela now and into the future. The United Nations goal is to have Mandela Day marked in every diary in every country in the world.”

South Africa’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Baso Sangqu, told the audience that the United Nations is hoping to pass the resolution in the upcoming National Assembly officially marking July 18 as Mandela Day.

“It is hoped that a movement will spring up to support the values of Mr Mandela. Such a commitment will sustain the work of this remarkable and great man,” he said.

The 12 Mandela Day students from the United States and their South African counterparts, winners of their respective essay competitions, handed over the youth Mandela Day Charter to Ki-moon, which was developed in June this year in South Africa.

Ki-moon went on to say that throughout his 27 years in prison, Mr Mandela had maintained a steadfast belief in justice.

“To this day he works tirelessly for peace and dignity throughout the world,” he said. “Millions of people are better off for thanks to his contribution. People have found solace and fortitude from him and he has done all of this with uncommon dignity. Mr Mandela has made a lasting impression on the world and we wish him a happy birthday and continued good health.”

Following the speeches Margaret Canca, from 46664 in South Africa, explained how exciting it was to have the students from South Africa and the United States present to hand over the youth charter to the United Nations Secretary General.

“Students from different backgrounds, of different ages and from different nationalities are all being brought together under the legacy of Mr Mandela and what he stands for. The youth has heeded the cause to make a difference – it’s in your hands,” Canca said.

Jeff Balch, Director of Research and Evaluation for the European Parliamentarians for Africa, explained that his organisation had been working to get Mandela Day endorsed by the European Parliament.

“We want to see Mandela Day adopted all over Europe as a standard,” he said. “It will inform policies made throughout Europe about and including Africa.”

The event was concluded with the delegates and guests, including the Consul General to New York from South Africa, Fikile Magubane, and actor Forest Whitaker signing the official Mandela Day Volunteer Scroll.