Nelson Mandela dedicated his life to transforming South Africa, but he changed the entire world. He taught us that an unflinching devotion to hope can triumph over any tyranny no matter how powerful.

Let's come together to celebrate his life with a giant message of gratitude -- for the courage he embodied, the injustice he righted, and the gift he gave us all to believe that within each of us lies the power to make the world a better place.

Let's add our names and personal messages to the Mandela memorial wall we've just built near his home. Then pledge to honour him by celebrating Mandela Day just as he's taught us -- through public service.

This quote from Mandela has inspired many people in their fight for a better world:

“I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one's head pointed toward the sun, one's feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair.”

Let's keep our heads pointed to the sun and our feet moving forward -- for Mandela and for the world he fought to make possible.

Rest in peace Madiba.

Ricken with the Avaaz team