“I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles.”

“I am fundamentally an optimist. Part of being optimistic is keeping one’s head pointed toward the sun, one’s feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death.”

“It always seems impossible, until it is done.”

"I have always believed exercise is a key not only to physical health but to peace of mind."

“Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

“No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.”

“Lead from the back – and let others believe they are in front.”

“Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.”

18 July is Nelson Mandela Day, marking the late South African president's birth. Here are some of his most inspiring quotes - and how his legacy lives on.

NELSON MANDELA

Similar ideas

Passion Is Bullshit

Indicators of an entrepreneurial spirit

Lead with fairness