As we celebrate Mandela Day, we are reminded of the pressing issues that still plague our society. Among these, digital poverty and the digital divide stand out as critical challenges. Yesterday, we took a significant step towards addressing these issues by taking 80 children from Diepsloot to the Nelson Mandela Foundation for a #Coding4Mandela tournament in partnership with Tangible Africa, Nelson Mandela Foundation and a handful of corporate donors, namely BBD Software, SaS, AWS, Cisco and Ericsson South Africa. This event is not just about learning to code; it’s about equipping our children with the essential skills they need to thrive in the 21st century.

Digital poverty is a harsh reality for many in Diepsloot. Limited access to technology and the internet means that countless young minds are left behind in a world that is increasingly digital. The digital divide widens the gap between those who have access to digital tools and those who do not, perpetuating cycles of poverty and limiting opportunities for growth and development.

Learning to code is more than just acquiring a technical skill. It fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity—skills that are crucial for success in any field. Coding teaches children how to; approach complex problems methodically, break challenges down into manageable parts, and develop innovative solutions. These are invaluable skills that can open doors to a myriad of opportunities in the future.

Yesterday’s coding tournament at the Nelson Mandela Foundation is a testament to our commitment to bridging the digital divide. It provides children with a rare opportunity to engage with technology, learn new skills, and envision a future where they can be active participants in the digital world. The excitement and curiosity we see in their eyes are a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within each child, waiting to be unlocked.

However, our efforts cannot be confined to a single day of the year. Addressing digital poverty and the digital divide requires sustained commitment and action. We must ensure that children have ongoing access to digital resources and educational opportunities. This means investing in infrastructure, providing access to devices and the internet, and continuously creating programs that nurture their skills and talents.

The benefits of such initiatives extend beyond individual children. By empowering our youth with digital skills, we are laying the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous society. These young coders will grow up to be innovators, leaders, and problem-solvers who can contribute to the growth and development of our communities.

As we reflect on the legacy of Nelson Mandela, let us remember his unwavering commitment to education and equality. Mandela believed that education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world. By addressing digital poverty and bridging the digital divide, we are honouring his legacy and working towards a brighter future for all.

Let’s make every day Mandela Day. Let’s commit to providing our children with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. Together, we can bridge the digital divide and create a world where every child has the chance to reach their full potential.

View the full photo album from our Mandela Day here.

#MandelaDay2024 #MandelaDay #BridgeTheDigitalDivide #Coding4Mandela #CodingForKids #FutureLeaders #4IR #4IRSouthAfrica #EveryDayMandelaDay