Dear Fellow South African,

The Department of Basic Education, LEAD SA and the Shout Foundation, supported by the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Brand SA and Proudly SA, have partnered to celebrate former President Nelson Mandela’s 94th birthday on Wednesday, 18 July 2012. We are rallying the nation to sing a special Happy Birthday song at 8am on the day.

On Monday, 18 June, exactly one month ahead of Mandela Day, we will launch the campaign publically. We are also encouraging the world to actively participate in 67 minutes of community service on Mandela Day.

We cordially invite you to join us on Tuesday, 29 May 2012 to record a group video of the Happy Birthday song. The idea is to spread the song virally, create excitement and prepare the nation for 18 July.

We would be delighted to have you participate in the recording.

Date: Tuesday, 29 May 2012 Time: 09h30 for 10h00 (As this is a video recording, we need you to please arrive timeously. We will require approximately an hour of your time.)

Venue: Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton

RSVP: Your RSVP is essential, please confirm your attendance by Thursday, 24 May. Email Catherine Constantinides on catherinec@primedia.co.za

Dress code: Your work attire. The idea is to get citizens from all walks of life represented. Whether you are in a suit, casual wear, uniform, your overalls, etc… simply come along and represent yourself.

Join us as we all stand united in celebrating our international icon on Mandela Day. Thank you for leading SA. We are looking forward to you joining us for the recording on Tuesday, 29 May.

Angie Motshekga - Minister of Basic Education
Yusuf Abramjee - Lead SA