Solidarity with South Africa as covid-19 spreads in that country. July 18th, Nelson Mandela Day.

Nelson Mandela has many accolades. He’s  an iconic figure that triumphed over South Africa’s apartheid regime. He was a human rights lawyer, a prisoner of conscience, and an international peacemaker. And he was the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa (no biggie).

So you see why the United Nations General Assembly would want to celebrate his life. Commemorated on July 18—Nelson Mandela’s birthday—Nelson Mandela International Day celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make an impact. So, in honor of his 67 years of public service, the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the UN asks that you spend 67 minutes of your time helping others.

5 Things You Should Know About Nelson Mandela

1.      Legal career

Mandela was one of South Africa's first black lawyers.

2.      Yet another first

Mandela was also South Africa's first black president.

3.      A Nobel Prize

Mandela was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his influential work in ending apartheid.

4.      Real name

Mandela's first name is actually Rolihlahla, but was nicknamed Nelson by one of his school teachers.

5.      A loving nickname

Many South Africans referred to Mandela as "Madiba" — which is a title of respect.