THE SPIRIT OF NELSON MANDELA: EMBODYING UBUNTU

THE SPIRIT OF NELSON MANDELA: EMBODYING UBUNTU

Event Celebrates & Educates Nelson Mandela’s Teachings

July 19, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center,

740 East 56th Place, Chicago, Illinois

CHICAGO, IL – Chicago Sister Cities International (CSCI), an initiative of World Business Chicago, proudly announces “The Spirit of Nelson Mandela: Embodying Ubuntu”. This event hosted by the Durban Committee of CSCI will be held in partnership with The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center on Saturday, July 19th, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

The event aims to celebrate the life and teachings of Nelson Mandela. Mandela’s leadership was deeply influenced by the southern African philosophy of Ubuntu, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanity, compassion, and the idea that “I am because we are.” Throughout his life, Mandela demonstrated Ubuntu by advocating for justice, reconciliation, and unity, even after enduring 27 years in prison. His ability to forgive and work toward a peaceful, democratic South Africa exemplified this philosophy. This free event, open to the public, includes a variety of activities designed to engage, educate, and empower attendees.

Activities

12:00 – 4:00 PM: Mandela’s Timeline-Community Engagement Organization Fair

12:00 – 4:00 PM: Community Mosaic Art Project

12:00 – 2:00 PM: Free Food Trucks

Program

12:00 – 1:00 PM: The Young Masters Performance

1:00 – 1:30 PM: Drums for Peace African Drum Circle

2:00 – 2:30 PM: Welcome remarks and essay contest reading

2:30 – 3:30 PM: Kopano Performance

“We are honored to host this event once again, this year with a focus on the enduring life and legacy of Nelson Mandela,” said Adrienne Tongate, Executive Vice President, World Business Chicago. “Our hope is that individuals leave inspired by Mandela’s example, with a deeper sense of shared purpose and a commitment to embodying the spirit of ubuntu in their everyday lives.”

The event will feature a Community Engagement Fair, laid out as a timeline of Mandela’s life, offering a platform for local organizations to provide valuable resources. Each organization has a connection to some of Mandela’s most significant milestones or experiences. The Chicago Mosaic School will facilitate a community art project, allowing each attendee to contribute to a collective art piece that will be housed at The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center. During the program, one high school student will read their essay from this year’s essay contest and three students will be presented with awards for their essays.

Attendees will also enjoy a networking reception with light refreshments, fostering connections among community members, leaders, and organizations. The evening program will include opening remarks, a special performance, the presentation of The Spirit of Nelson Mandela Award, and an intergenerational conversation designed to bridge generational gaps and inspire dialogue.

For more information about “The Spirit of Nelson Mandela: Embodying Ubuntu,” http://www.chicagosistercities.com/nelsonmandela2025.


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