An (Imaginary) Interview with Nelson Mandela ~by Niloofar Ghyasi

NG: Niloofar Ghyasi
NM: Nelson Mandela
CM: Craca Machel

Today, on 12 October 2009, I am delighted to interview one the most famous statesmen in history: 91year old Nelson Mandela. We are in his house together with his wife, Grac Machel, in Qunu, South Africa, where he was born. Our interview contains Mandela’s overviews over the period when he fought against racism and guided the revolution until it changed history for good.

NG: As we are heading to a beautifully decorated room and Mrs. Mandela is joining us carrying cups of coffees, I will make the most of my chances and start with my first question. Are you ready, Mr. Mandela?

NM: Yes, of course!

NG: After your release, in your speech, you mentioned that the struggle against the violence of apartheid still exists. Did you not assume that they may imprison you again because of what you said?

NM: Not really. After 27 years of being in prison, feeling everyone’s eyes on myself gave me the confidence to go for reconciliation. I remember some conflicts at that time, since black people still had not been given their right to vote. The world’s eyes were watching out for a decision. I would not go for a bloody fight; nevertheless, I could see that minds were open for discussions to resolve things.

NG: Indeed, you are right. The world needs the symbols of sacrifice. If you had not spoken the rights of your people out aloud, your revolutionary idea would not have been backed in the election. Considering that as you said, all eyes are on speakers on the stage, what were your first plans as a president?

NM: The most important thing in my mind was the opportunity, which I was given after 27 years of waiting for it. Of course I celebrated it with everyone although my revolt was not over. I tried to stabilise the situation so that the presidents after me could follow in my footsteps. Our revolution – and by that I mean the world’s revolution – still has a long way to go.

NG: And by referring to your autobiography, you believe that a revolution …

NM: … means a “Long Walk to Freedom”!

NG: How would you describe racial relations nowadays?

NM: I can see the impact of past generations and that the world is working for peace everywhere. Different organizations and lots of revolutionary movements have been established. They will definitely succeed if they are tolerant and keep resisting racism.

NG: This has been the best interview that I have ever had! I now want to interview all the revolutionists! (Coughs.)

CM: And I think you will need your voice back before that! I will go and exchange your cold coffees!

NG: (Laughs.) Thank you for your time.

NM: (Laughs.) You’re most welcome!

In Year 12 English B, students have chosen a person who has fought against racism and created imaginary interviews based on their research. After exploring different aspects of racism in the United States, the students have been able to reflect on a person and culture of their choice in this culminating assignment. Individual choices as to emphasis of ideas and approach to the written task itself have resulted in a fascinating range of voices. We are proud to share selected interviews in our ISH newsletter with you!

Heike Bergman
Teacher of English B