However, other groups began celebrating Mandela Day on 18 July 2009.

[3] Mandela Day is not meant as a public holiday, but as a day to honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela, South Africa's former President, and his values, through volunteering and community service.

[1][4] Mandela Day is a global call to action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world, the ability to make an impact.

[5] In November 2009, the United Nations General Assembly formally declared 18 July to be "Nelson Mandela International Day".

[7] In 2014, the UN General Assembly established the Nelson Mandela Prize, an award given every 5 years recognising the achievements of those who dedicated their lives to the service of humanity.