It’s hard to believe that Nelson Mandela is celebrating his 94th birthday today. His extraordinary life and commitment to the principles of democracy and reconciliation continues to be a beacon for people all over the world. The charity has felt honored to have been apart of Mandela’s vision over the past 10 years; giving people in the townships of South Africa the opportunity to own their own house.

I came across this excerpt from an interview with Niall Mellon about 2 years ago which I thought was quite appropriate to today’s celebration:

Q. When did the project come to the attention of South Africa Leader, Neslon Mandela?
A. I can’t remember exactly but I’d say it was 18 months to 2 years after we had got started. I was married to Nicola and had a little baby boy - Harry and we were invited up to meet Mr. Mandela in his home. I think we had been at a lunch previously with him but this was more personal. We were both nervous even about what to wear and decided to wear what we’d both be happiest in - jeans and T shirt. It was a very special moment to spend that time with him,  he loves children and he had great fun playing with our little baby Harry. I kept telling him our little fella had reflux and we had just given him a bottle of milk, but he just kept lifting him up and down..... I have had the privilege of meeting him several times and the last time I met him personally he spoke with great admiration and affection for the Irish volunteers and Ireland and what is possible when enough people come together - he called it the power of the collective.