Nelson Mandela is arguably the most inspirational political figure of the twentieth century and this new exhibition marks 100 years since his birth.

Extraordinary artefacts on show for the first time in Britain at Nelson Mandela: The Centenary Exhibition 2018 include the complete works of Shakespeare that the South African secretly studied while incarcerated for 27 years. Watch out for too a pickaxe used by quarrying prisoners on Robben Island where he was famously imprisoned.

Another highlight is a letter of thanks written by the anti-Apartheid leader – dedicated to the British public – read out at the Free Nelson Mandela concert at Wembley Stadium in 1990. (Fun fact: one of us was there- and yes, it was amazing!)

There’ll be loads to discover about Nelson Mandela at the Southbank exhibition

There’ll also be a Children’s Trail where little ones can learn more about the life of the first black South African President. Kids can also share ideas about how to make the world a better place via interactive questions on display.

Sello Hatang, the Chief Executive of the Nelson Mandela Foundation says; “London was both South Africa’s colonial metropole and the headquarters of the international anti-apartheid struggle.

“It was also the venue for some of Nelson Mandela’s most inspiring speeches. May his life, work and ideas inspire the kind of global movement for change humankind desperately needs.”

Mandela’s astonishing life story – from “terrorist” to prisoner to President – remains the ultimate moral struggle of our times. And a sobering contrast to the capricious and self-serving politicians of today. Go see!

Now – 19th Aug, daily 10am – 11pm: Nelson Mandela: The Centenary Exhibition 2018
Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX
FREE – For more info click here