Caitlin Dillon
Chief Mandla
Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela, is currently in Doha to celebrate South
Africa’s Heritage Day with the South African community in Qatar, along with the
Supreme Committee of Delivery & Legacy (SC).
Mandela was
welcomed by members of the SC as part of their ongoing commitment to support
and engage with local communities. A member of the African National Congress,
Chief Mandla was joined by members of the South African community in Qatar at
Al Bidda Tower to witness Qatar’s progress towards hosting the 2022 FIFA World
Cup – the first in the Arab world.
“I hope
that as you live your days here in Qatar, looking forward to 2022 and hosting a
wonderful World Cup, you will indeed fly the South African flag because my
grandfather Madiba – Nelson Mandela – would love that,” he stated, while
wishing Qatar every success for the years ahead. He also urged members of the
South African community in Doha to play their part in ensuring the success of
the event.
Thanking
Chief Mandla for his attendance, Mead Al Emadi, Community Engagement Manager at
the SC stated, “Yours was the first World Cup to be hosted in Africa, and ours
will be the first in the Arab region. As you went on to host an historic and
memorable tournament, we too hope to redefine the narrative and showcase our
rich heritage to the world.”
And, for
the SC, the event only highlighted the importance of engaging with different
communities living in Qatar. Samantha Sifah, Head of Community Outreach, recognised
this, “As well as celebrating South African heritage and cultural practices,
the event gave us the opportunity to recognise and personally thank community members
who have gone above and beyond to support and contribute to the SC’s work… It
gives us the opportunity to engage with, and speak directly to, members of the
community about our on-going work towards the 2022 FIFA World Cup.”