Thursday, January 22, 2009

Obama vs. Mandela



Obama has generated a surge of hope in the US and abroad and, while I have no particular interest or knowledge in politics, I believe Mandela was the last (if not the only) country leader to have such a base of followers in recent history.

I can’t help to make the comparison because both leaders were mandated to bring change in trying times and the color of their skin was part of their promise for change.

I remember the hopes of South Africa in 1994. Years later, most people who cheered for Mandela abroad have forgotten these hopes and the South African people are still facing major challenges.

What we should learn from the Mandela experience:

Change comes from the people not only from the leader they elect, no matter how talented or inspirational they may be. Whether we talk about a country, a good sports team or a good startup :-), success lies in the people’s perseverance, stamina and ability to remember everyday their promise to themselves.

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