Ndaba Mandela’s: Timely message to Djukun Nation

Image Credit: Jaala Ozies (2024), Ndaba Mandela.

I had the pleasure of meeting Ndaba Mandela the Grandson of Nelson Mandela. We had an important and meaningful dialogue about community, collective resilience, self-determination, solidarity and the power of the of the people to bring about change. He had some inspiring words for the Djukun Nation. He was eager to learn about Djukun Nation and we had a short exchange in the Djukun Language. Ndaba encouraged the Djukun Nation to unite and to support each other in our language revitalisation, reclamation of our culture and our identity. 

Central to Mandela’s message was a call for unity and mutual support within the Djukun community. He spoke to me about importance of collective action in revitalizing the Djukun language, reclaiming cultural practices, and reaffirming the identity of the Djukun people. He encouraged us to stand in solidarity in our pursuit of cultural preservation and revitalization. 

Mandela’s words echoed the legacy of his Grandfather, Nelson Mandela, whose unwavering commitment to social justice and reconciliation inspired generations around the world. Drawing from this rich legacy, Ndaba Mandela emphasized the transformative power of grassroots movements and community-led initiatives.  

His words resonated with me because change begins with individuals coming together to advocate for their shared values and aspirations. 

“Gala yangarda (let’s go, Djukun language) Djukun Nation”.

Video Credit: Jaala Ozies