Celebrities took to social media on Saturday to remember the work of late civil rights activist Nelson Mandela on what would have been his 97th birthday.
The South African leader passed away in 2013, but left behind a legacy sure to outlive many generations to come.
“Nelson Mandela was great man, and I realized is still inspiring me and many others,” Serena Williams wrote on Instagram. “Forgiveness is vital to let our minds not stay in a mental prison. It doesn’t matter how ignorance may affect you, let’s inspire and lift one another up. I’m so fortunate to have met him.”
PHOTOS: Nelson Mandela: Memorable Moments With The Stars
Disney star Zendaya traveled to South Africa to support the UNAIDS HIV Counselling & Testing Day on Friday, and continued her visit to honor Mandela.
“Go out there and continue his legacy,” she told her Instagram followers, captioning a shot of a statue of the revolutionary, just one of many on display throughout the country.
READ: Nelson Mandela: Stars React To South African Icon’s Death
Behati Prinsloo also shared her support from South Africa.
“Spread HOPE and spread LOVE,” the model and Namibia native wrote on Instagram. “It always wins!!!!!”
“Fight Song” singer Rachel Platten took to Twitter to pay a brief but powerful tribute, writing, “A winner is a dreamer who never gives up,” and included the #MandelaDay hashtag alongside her message.
Alyssa Milano Tweeted a gallery of some of Mandela’s most memorable photos and public appearances, including shots of the politician and philanthropist with his family and supporters.
#MandelaDay. A look back at Madiba’s life & legacy, in pictures http://t.co/p97bWfTbEa pic.twitter.com/OFVhHBuPRU h/t @GettyImages /via @heykim
— Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) July 18, 2015
WATCH: Idris Elba Recalls Hearing About Nelson Mandela’s Death At The ‘Long Walk To Freedom’ Premiere
The Oprah Winfrey Network shared an image on its Twitter feed of Mandela alongside the media magnate, and wished the “true hero” a happy birthday.
Happy Birthday to a true hero, Nelson Mandela.#MandelaDay pic.twitter.com/hfmgKaaB9f
— OprahWinfrey Network (@OWNTV) July 18, 2015
Mandela had built lasting relationships with many world leaders and influencers, including President Bill Clinton, who Tweeted a picture of himself smiling with the anti-Apartheid crusader whom Clinton called his “friend.”
Remembering my friend today. #MandelaDay pic.twitter.com/GtdRxf7tQP
— Bill Clinton (@billclinton) July 18, 2015
— Erin Biglow
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