President of South Africa, hero of the struggle against apartheid, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. Nelson Mandela is 105 years old today.

Nelson Mandela was more than an ordinary man; he possessed a profound ability to bring about transformative change that not only shaped his nation, but also resonated across the globe. He advocated for a world free of racism, discrimination, and hate. Born in the small South African village of Mvezo, Nelson Mandela – affectionately known as Madiba – devoted his life to fighting against the apartheid regime in his homeland and was a gleam of hope for oppressed communities worldwide.

Mandela’s commitment to justice and equality compels us to recognize and deal with the lasting effects of colonialism and today’s authoritarian regimes. As president, he emphasized reconciliation, creating the “Rainbow Nation,” a testament to South Africa’s diverse population. This led to the creation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, a unique body dedicated to uncovering past injustices and guiding the nation towards reconciliation. Mandela’s approach to healing divisions and addressing past wrongs has since become a model for conflict resolution and restorative justice worldwide.

As we honor Mandela today, let’s reflect on how his undying dedication resonates in places like Ukraine. The country, battling for peace and justice amid an ongoing war, embodies many of the principles Mandela lived for. Since 2014, Ukraine has been entangled in a protracted war in which Russian forces have committed numerous human rights violations. In these difficult times, Ukrainian citizens and human rights organizations have stepped up, tirelessly advocating for those affected and echoing Mandela’s fight for justice. His strong leadership, human rights commitment, and ability to inspire change remind us that we can overcome any challenge if we stand united to uphold dignity for all.

Remembering Mandela, we need to continue his fight globally, from South Africa to Ukraine and wherever human rights are threatened. Mandela’s life offers a lesson: true peace comes from acknowledging past wrongs, healing from trauma, and building a society that values its people’s diversity. This vision inspires the ongoing work of human rights activists, the bravery of ordinary people, and the resilience of communities ravaged by war.