The village walk, which traces the steps of Mandela, starts at the 1926 Sparta Camp, situated in the heart of Varty Camp. Lead by Linah Lamula, the village walk allows guests to interact with staff and their families who have lived and worked at Londolozi for over 30 years.
Departing from the 1926 Sparta Camp, you pass through the Varty Boma, where the family fire has burned in the same place for 86 years. Continuing on, you pass the Cubs Den, where children of guests are enthralled under professional tutelage in nature’s outdoor classroom. The walk continues to the entrance of the staff village, where an old leadwood log serves as a rubbing post. Once you pass through the entrance, you arrive at the evocative “Freedom’s Way” art installation by Simon Max Bannister.
Your journey then takes you to the Elder’s Village, the Spaza Shop, the Clinic and Learning Centre, ending at the children’s playground. Once you exit the village, you make a brief stop at the Design and Creative Centre. The village walk ends with an optional visit to the Garden of Celebration, where you are invited to plant a tree symbolic of whatever reason you choose– in aid of the Good Work Foundation (GWF).
While it is important to recognize Mandela’s solo achievements, it is critical that we take his passion into our own lives, taking forward the elements of great leadership to heal the human affliction in the world. Nelson Mandela is an icon and leader loved by all South Africans, young, old, rich and poor. He is known and respected throughout the world. Through his attitude and values, he taught us valuable lessons:
Courage: “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid but he who conquers that fear.”
Freedom: “I have walked the long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter. I have made mistakes along the way. But I have discovered the secret after climbing a great hill, one only finds there are many more hills to climb.”
Resilience: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling but in rising every time we fall.”
Trust: “We signal that good can be achieved amongst human beings who are prepared to trust, prepared to believe in the goodness of people.”
Unity: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Empathy: “I stand here before you not as a prophet but as a humble servant of you, the people. Your tireless and heroic sacrifices have made it possible for me to be here today. I, therefor place the remaining years of my life in your hands.”
