For 67 years, global icon, visionary leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Nelson “Madiba” Mandela gave his time for the greater good of his people. In 2009, the United Nations declared 18 July “Nelson Mandela Day” to give people around the world an opportunity to spend just 67 minutes taking some small actions that contribute to the upliftment of our communities.

2010 marks the leader’s 92nd birthday. It is not often that we get the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the giants that walked before us, but Mandela Day embraces the principle of small, selfless individual actions adding up to massive changes. In spending 27 years in prison and being banned from publication in any South African media, Madiba refused to give in and quietly shone as a beacon of hope until his release in 1994.

It is this spirit that Nelson Mandela Day aims to emulate around the world; a calling for individuals to do what they can, where they can, for 67 selfless minutes on the 18th July. You have 67 days to prepare and plan what you could contribute, and get your friends and communities to join you.

By requesting the date to be globally recognised and encouraging everyday people to initiate positive change, the Nelson Mandela Foundation and 46664, in association with other allied organisations, have made Madiba’s legacy live on. In adopting the resolution, the United Nations General Assembly expressed its appreciation for “a great man who had suffered for the sake of people everywhere”, thoughts echoed resoundingly among the 19 speakers who also appealed for the creation of a world in which racism, hatred and human rights abuse would no longer find refuge.

An enthusiastic reception to the launch of Mandela Day in South Africa and New York in 2009 brought out the best in individuals, communities and even government organisations. New Yorkers attended photographic exhibitions on the life and times of Nelson Mandela and cleaned up parks; grocery chain Shoprite hosted four Mandela Day birthday parties for senior citizens; and Gauteng Shared Service Centre initiated the cleaning and painting Children’s and old age homes and assisted with filing systems at Baragwanath Hospital. This year, organisations the world over can also register their initiatives on the website: http://www.nelsonmandela.org.za

It is not what we do, but the spirit in which we do it that counts. Mandela Day asks us all to embrace Madiba’s values and honour his legacy through acts of kindness, just 67 minutes of our time. In the words of the great man himself: “It is time for the next generations to continue our struggle against social injustice and for the rights of humanity. It is in your hands.”

* Let us know what you are going to do this Mandela Day by posting your comments below. You’ve got 67 days to plan!