The South African Creative Industry is saddened by the departure of a global icon, the father of the nation, a struggle hero, a former and first democratically elected President of the Republic of South Africa.
We therefore, in unity, join the multitudes from all over the world in mourning the death of our beloved, Tata Rolihlahla Nelson Madiba Mandela.
Moved by this sad departure of such a human extraordinaire, as the creative industry we commit ourselves in keeping up with the lessons left by Tata Madiba, in particular the legacy of unity amongst all the peoples of the world and cultures.
We acknowledge that our unity as the creative industry is key towards resolving many issues affecting the sector, and therefore in the spirit of Madiba, today we mark the beginning to a united front of the creative industry.
As organised structures within the creative sector and industry, we wish to thank Madiba for his tireless efforts and the selflessness he displayed in fighting for justice for all, freedom for all, equal rights for all, and the reconciliation of the nation at large.
We wish to thank the Mandela family for having allowed us to share Tata Madiba with them to even a greater extent of sacrificing their quality time that they never got to enjoy due to his incarceration.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family that has lost a husband, a father, a grandfather and a great grandfather. To the African National Congress that he committed to its existence and unity until the time of his death, our deep felt condolences for having lost a cadre of such a calibre, many of us will be looking up to you for guidance as you pick up the spear of Madiba and living by his example, especially having had an opportunity of knowing him long before all of us.
May his soul Rest in Peace.
