The movie Invictus presents Nelson Mandela's life from prison to World Cup Rugby victory in a Hollywood portrayal. The 16th Man, a documentary represents a more authentic look into the struggles and successes of Nelson Mandela's actual life that lead him to prison, his years there, and his courageous rise to leadership. This documentary weaves politics and showcases the 'Springbok', South African's national rugby team. His greatest asset developed in prison was patience. He remained stedfast during his rise in power with a calm and committed demeanor. He did not demand trust from the whites or the blacks, he earned it every step of the way. With years of Apartheid, tensions were high all over South Africa. The blacks were counting on Mandela to not only reverse these laws, but to favor their cause. For a while it looked as though Mandela was siding with the white way. He saw an opportunity that not many diid. He saw a way to unite all South Africans through Rugby. The impact of Mandela's brilliant relationship building helped transition the country from segregation to integration. For Mandela to bridge these relationships between races with sports and with out a racial war, will go down in history as one of the greatest leadership strategies ever implemented.
As a leader, I honor his bravery and know I will simply never be challenged to any extreme. I have had several political challenges though, and I take stock in Mandela's bravery. I have learned if you believe in your cause and know it is is the right thing then you must remain stedfast in commitment. My cause is always to put children first and I am willing to endure a fight against those whose politics get in the way of what is best for children.
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