The Elders honour the memory of their Founder, Nelson Mandela

“Nelson Mandela stands as an inspiration to us all” – Kofi AnnanThe Elders are deeply saddened by the death of their founder, Nelson Mandela. They join millions of people around the world who were inspired by his courage and touched by his compass

Nelson Mandela introduces The Elders, Johannesburg, 18 July 2007

On his 89th birthday, Nelson Mandela announced the formation of The Elders: a small dedicated group of leaders who will work objectively, free from any vested personal interest, to help address global challenges.

Nelson Mandela's speech at the launch of The Elders

In this speech delivered on the occasion of his 89th birthday, Nelson Mandela announces the formation of The Elders and expresses his hope that the group will "work to support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict, and insp