Mandela +20: Light the Way

What We Did: 

• We laid out a clear policy platform and made the case for public support. We launched True Freedom, ONE’s policy paper on the progress made on the priorities Mandela set in 2005 and how the policy agenda looks different today. We published a new poll from More In Common that showed the majority of UK respondents believe the UK hasn’t done enough to address these priorities. 
• We stimulated the debate. Together with the Bond network and the South Africa High Commission, we hosted 350 thinkers, policymakers, activists, civil society leaders, and young people for a high-level event at Central Hall Westminster. Participant signed a huge commitment board echoing Nelson Mandela’s insistence that “as long as poverty, injustice, and gross inequality persist in our world, none of us can truly rest.” 
• We worked with partners to amplify our reach. Activists from Concern, Restless, Results UK, Stop AIDS, WaterAid, UNICEF, and ONE walked from Central Hall to the Houses of Parliament to meet with Parliament and protect and strengthen UK aid, and ensure strong commitments to Gavi and the Global Fund for AIDS, TB, and Malaria. 
• And we ended on a high note, an inspirational call for the next generation of changemakers. Speakers and performers inspired thousands in Trafalgar Square; to conclude the event, a projection of Nelson Mandela’s words and voice reminded us of the progress made and the ongoing call to be the great generation. The film was voiced by activist and actor Martins Imangbe.

Watch the event recap below:

Results  

• Two MPs referenced our campaign during the Prime Minister’s Questions – a rare direct engagement that proves our creative approach works.   
• Media coverage included ITV1 and BBC1 reporting live from Trafalgar Square, a piece appearing in The Guardian, podcast The Rest is Politics, and a piece in Devex.  
• Our Instagram reel of the Trafalgar Square projection received 12,000 views in the first few days of its release.  
• Held more than forty meetings with Members of Parliament about the need for the UK to be a true leading partner in international development.