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Ndaba Mandela, grandson of the celebrated human rights activist Nelson Mandela, spoke at ������Ƶ for its annual MLK Jr. Symposium and Day of Service on Jan. 24.

Mandela’s address touched on this year’s symposium theme of “Living the Legacy Through Service.” In his remarks, he shared a story about his grandfather, whose high expectations inspired the younger Mandela to follow in his footsteps.

“I remember I was about 13 years old, and he said to me, ‘You’re my grandson. Therefore, people will look at you as a leader. Therefore, you must get the best marks in class. And I’m like, whoa whoa, whoa! The pressure, the pressure,” he said. “That pressure: Is it good or bad? I say it’s great. We need our parents to put pressure on us, because often we don't know what we’re capable of.”

He added, “I'll ask you: How is a diamond created? A diamond is created through the exertion of great pressure. Right? And so, your parents want you to become the diamonds. They want you to shine. They’re not putting pressure on you so you can implode. No. They want you to achieve much more than you think you’re able to achieve.”

Ndaba Mandela is the co-founder and chairman of the Africa Rising Foundation and the Mandela Institute for Humanity, which aims to teach Nelson Mandela’s ethics and philosophy to the next generation of young leaders. He also serves as an executive director UN AIDS, an organization that seeks to end discrimination around HIV/AIDS through the power of football. His recent book, “Going to the Mountain: Life Lessons from My Grandfather,” offers a unique perspective on the life and influence of Nelson Mandela.

While introducing Mandela, Central President Zulma R. Toro noted, “Ndaba is a remarkable leader in his own right, dedicating his life to advancing the values of justice and equality that his grandfather and Dr. King championed. He has made impactful contributions toward world peace, youth empowerment, and social justice through his work around the world. We are incredibly fortunate to welcome him to our campus today.”

Members of the campus community completed several service projects following the symposium. Central partnered with the United Way, Human Resources Agency of New Britain, Friendship Service Center, and the Connecticut Alliance of Foster and Adoptive Families to create MLK-themed literacy kits; assemble books and blankets for young people in foster care; and sort donations and put together care kits at the Friendship Service Center.

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Ndaba Mandela encourages students, faculty, and staff to celebrate his grandfather's legacy of service. (Photo by Stan Godlewski)

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President Toro chats with Ndaba Mandela before his keynote address ������Ƶ's annual MLK Day Symposium and Day of Service on Jan. 24. (Photo by Stan Godlewski)