It would be quite fitting to call Nelson Mandela the most inspiring and powerful hero of sustainability. The former South African President, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela is one of the most widely known figures that existed in the history of mankind. He was a revolutionary, activist, political leader, and philanthropist.

His contributions to humanity are immense. He stood up for the needy and oppressed. His belief in a world of democracy was strong. He envisioned a free society where men live together in harmony and peace with each other and are given equal opportunities.

His fight against apartheid to end racial behaviour in South Africa speaks volume and was a huge step towards a sustainable future. His speeches were highly inspiring and moved a million souls around the globe.

The legend passed away in December 2013, but his words will never cease to fire the importance of quality, justice, and peace. He would have been 100 by now.

BuzzOnEarth brings you some of the most iconic quotes by Nelson Mandela. It’s difficult to choose a few but somehow we managed to do so.

1.“In my country, we go to prison first and then become President.”

2.”There is no passion to be found playing small — in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”

3.”People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite,”

4.” Difficulties break some men but make others. No axe is sharp enough to cut the soul of a sinner who keeps on trying, one armed with the hope that he will rise even in the end.”

5.”No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion,”

6.”Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. And overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life. While poverty persists, there is no true freedom.”

7.”I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die,”

8.”It always seems impossible until it’s done.”

9.“Action without vision is only passing time, vision without action is merely day dreaming, but vision with action can change the world.”

10.“There is nothing I fear more than waking up without a program that will help me bring a little happiness to those with no resources, those who are poor, illiterate, and ridden with terminal disease.”

11.”It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.”

12.”Forget the past”

These words are more than just mere words. Mandela’s teachings not only depict a high level of intelligence and goodwill but is a call to action. His battle with apartheid in South Africa is over, but his ideals are still required to bring a change in the world. The significance of education, equality, and world peace play a crucial role in attaining sustainable development goals for an improved and prosperous future.

Let’s tread on the road he has shown us and build a future where no soul would be oppressed and denied basic human rights. Let’s take Mandela’s legacy forward.