By MATT NICHOLLS
THABE Sebola said he was “very shocked” when he heard of Nelson Mandela’s death on Friday.
Currently enjoying his gap year at The Armidale School, the 19-year-old South African said he had the TV on in the background when he heard his former president had died.
“He was a very inspiring man and led our rainbow nation,” Mr Sebola said.
“To go through what he did and still be able to see a better world made him truly amazing.”
Mr Sebola’s parents both worked for the South African government and he said they could “feel the difference” as a result of Mr Mandela’s leadershp.
“His death not only had a big impact on South Africa, but also the world, as you can see by (US president) Barack Obama’s response.”
The teenager, who has only been in Armidale for six months, said he hoped South Africa would celebrate Mr Mandela’s life with a public holiday to commemorate his achievements.
University of New England Professor of Peace Studies Helen Ware said she had the privilege of meeting Mr Mandela twice.
Professor Ware was the Australian High Commissioner in Losaka when he was released from prison.
“He was a very stately, very tall person, with wonderful charisma, when we were introduced he gave me this wonderful bear hug and a kiss on the cheek, it was a wonderful moment,” she said.
