“What better day than his birthday?” guests at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis asked on July 18 during the Mandela Celebration of one of the museum’s newest and most tear-jerking exhibits.
Vice President of Experience Development and Family Learning at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Monica Ramsey was thrilled about the night.
“This evening is exactly that: a celebration,” Ramsey told the Indianapolis Recorder. “We are really excited to have young entrepreneurs from all over the continent of Africa to celebrate and share their experiences with us.”
Ramsey is referring to the participation of the 2024 Mandela Washington Fellows from Purdue University. The fifth cohort takes part in a six-week program from June 19 to July 28.
The program includes intensive executive-style leadership training, networking, community service and skills building. The focus is on engineering and agriculture-related innovations and businesses.
One of this year’s fellows is Luvo Gugwana of South Africa.
“I want people to see what Africa is from Africans,” Gugwana said. “This exhibit is a chance to get that straight from the horse’s mouth.”
Gugwana is also a member of the Xhosa clan, the same clan that Mandela belonged to.
Information from Gugwana, a 2024 Mandela Washington Fellow, adds a contemporary perspective on Mandela’s legacy and the ongoing fight for social justice in South Africa.
“Back in our country on the 18th of July, we celebrate Mandela Day. It is a day where we live his legacy, what he represented and what he stood for,” Gugwana said. “Mandela stood for reconciliation, harmony and unity.” The exhibit unfolds chronologically, starting with “Meeting Mandela,” where visitors are introduced to his various titles and accomplishments.
The Mandela exhibit begins with an introduction that sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Mandela’s life. It is divided into sections focusing on his formative years, his advancement to activism, imprisonment, the fight for freedom, the presidency and his long-lasting legacy.
“Today I have the opportunity to be in a room with many different ethnic groups;” Gugwana said. “For us to live in harmony, we need to understand each other culturally and religiously. We must learn about each other and understand each other’s pain. If we understand each other’s pain, we can be vulnerable with each other and begin to bring in harmony.”
One of the highlights of the exhibit is its ability to personalize Mandela’s tale. Early sections delve into his childhood in rural South Africa, underscoring the influences that shaped his character, including Ubuntu.
Gugwana spoke about the importance of Ubuntu:
“It is a value that means ‘I am because we are.’ That is a big value in our tribe and across our country.”
During the celebration, visitors learned about the injustices Mandela witnessed under apartheid, which fueled his passion for fairness.
The “10,000 Days: The Prison Years” section is particularly emotional. Here, museumgoers confront the brutal realities of Mandela’s 27-year incarceration.
Additionally, the exhibit emphasizes Mandela’s unwavering spirit and leadership within the prison walls.
Community member Markeeta Smith shared her thoughts at the celebration.
“Overall, this exhibit is inspirational and uplifting. I feel empowered,” Smith said.
Further, Smith resonates with the event on a distinct level compared to those from the States.
“My family is from Jamaica,” Smith said. “I feel this event hits differently when you realize you aren’t from [the U.S.]”
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The final section, “The Meaning of Mandela,” encourages reflection. Visitors are invited to contemplate Mandela’s message and its relevance to their lives.
Here, the exhibit emphasizes the importance of education, activism and fighting for what you believe in, echoing Mandela’s famous quote:
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Gugwana underscored “The Meaning of Mandela” in his own words.
“We need to work together to empower each other;” Gugwana said. “This exhibit is a chance for people to learn about us and also a chance for us to unlearn some things about them. It goes both ways.”
While geared towards ages 12 and up, the exhibit’s accessible layout and well-curated displays make it a practical learning experience for everyone.
The exhibit doesn’t shy away from the complexities or the tough conversations surrounding South Africa’s history. Visitors are exposed to the brutality of apartheid and the challenges faced during the transition to democracy. Mandela’s role in fostering reconciliation between races is a central theme, showcasing his belief in forgiveness and unity.
It’s important to note that the exhibit does incorporate some low lighting and occasional loud noises, which may be a concern for visitors with sensory sensitivities. However, Ramsey ensured that the museum offers resources and support to provide a positive experience for everyone.
Overall, “Mandela: The Official Exhibition” is a well-executed and engaging exploration of a remarkable life. It serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s power to overcome adversity and fight for a better future.
The Mandela exhibit is open until January 20, 2025. For more information, visit their website.
Contact multi-media & senior sports reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral.
