Have a pic with Madiba?

If you are one of those lucky children who met or took a photo with the late Nelson Mandela, then the Centre for Early Childhood Development (CECD) wants you.

In celebration of what would have been Mandela’s 100th birthday in July, the centre is putting together a Mandela and Children book.

“We are collecting photographs and short stories from people who met President Mandela as a child. We are interested to hear from people about their experience of meeting Mandela as a child and the impact this experience had on their lives,” the centre said in a statement.

The CECD is also collecting Mandela drawings for the book.

“We have approached a number of primary and high schools to participate so far and we would still like some more schools to come on board.

“Drawings can be about anything to do with Mandela. We have kept it open-ended as we are hoping learners will use their imagination in deciding what they would like to draw.”

For example, learners could draw how they imagine Mandela; a moment they remember about Mandela; or something that reflects or represents the great man.

Learners should put their name and age on their drawings when submitting, and the centre will then make a selection from everything they receive.

You can email your photos and stories to [email protected].

Deadline for submissions is 15 March.

For any further queries, and for the drawings submissions, you can contact Bridget at 021 683 2420.