Former President of South Africa and Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. The power of education extends beyond the development of skills we need for economic success. It can contribute to nation-building and reconciliation.”

Mandela Day is celebrated on the 18^th of July every year. It’s a day where we share the successes we have achieved and the lessons we have learned as we continue to battle current social, economic and political issues, and its effect on those less fortunate than ourselves.

As the Director of Operations and the head of human resources at T2 Tech Group, I believe no truer words have been spoken. In fact, we put into practice this educational quote on a regular basis at T2 Tech. We believe that educating, training and certifying our staff contributes to the empowerment of our highly competent and skilled professionals. Not only does developing our employees’ skills fill our toolbox, but it also lowers our staff turnover and creates a culture of learning. By meeting such educational goals and certification, our employees are showing me that they want to be better and do better. This translates over to every part of our business, bringing us back to the point that being educated not only changes yourself, it changes your business, the vendors you manage, and the clients you work with.

Nelson Mandela is my personal hero.

Many of us in the office are originally from South Africa and many of us have experienced the challenges and triumphs throughout Mandela’s life. I try to put into practice his lifelong vision of freedom and equality for all in both my professional and personal life.

T2 Tech, along with Mesa Water, recently donated nearly 100 computers to two local charities, School on Wheels and the Children’s Bureau. School on Wheels will use the laptops to help less fortunate children better address their academic needs and help teach technology skills through its network of online tutors. The Children’s Bureau will make use of its desktops to ensure the organization can continue to serve at-risk children and their families effectively and efficiently. I was proud to be a part of such a positive event for my community.

I challenge everyone to invest in your education and the education of others so we can follow the words of a Freedom Fighter who believed in justice and equality for all.  Do something every day to work towards educational goals, no matter how small the effort may be. “In 2020, the essence of Mandela Day – take action, inspire change, and make every day a Mandela Day – is more important than ever before.” #MandelaDay

For more information about Nelson Mandela’s vision and the Nelson Mandela Foundation, visit https://www.nelsonmandela.org/.