Nelson Mandela to Speak at the Closing Ceremony of IAC 2004
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Leadership Program
XV International AIDS Conference
International Statesman, HIV/AIDS Activist and former political
prisoner, Nelson Mandela is making an exceptional effort to join
the XV International AIDS Conference in Bangkok next week. After
announcing his retirement from public life, Mr. Mandela has
agreed to speak at the closing ceremony of the conference as a
special guest of the Leadership Program. The theme of his speech
will be "Let Us Unite in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS" and will be
given on Sunday, July 16th at 12.00 pm in the Arena of the
IMPACT Center.
For the first time ever, this years conference will feature a
full program focusing on leadership in the fight against
HIV/AIDS. The Leadership Program will bring global attention to
the role and concrete contribution of leadership from all sec-
tors, and in all parts of the world. As one of the modern
worlds greatest leaders, Mr. Mandela will join with the Leader-
ship Program to encourage and challenge others to take the lead
in the HIV/AIDS struggle.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation and the new Leadership Program
will also jointly host an evening session on Thursday, July
15th, at 8:00 pm entitled, "46664: The Message", brought to you
by the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Mr. Mandela will host the
presentation and give a short speech during this unique evening
session held in the Arena of the Impact Center. In November
2003, Nelson Mandela launched his worldwide, music-led campaign,
"46664", named for his prisoner number, to raise awareness about
HIV/AIDS in Africa. The launch was marked by a world-class con-
cert in Cape Town, South Africa with famous vocalists and rock
stars such as Bono, Beyonce, and Queen performing.
When asked about the inspiration for his AIDS campaign, Mr. Man-
dela stated, "I was imprisoned on Robben Island, known as just a
number. Millions of people today, infected with AIDS, are just
that - a number. They too are serving a prison sentence - for
life."
Dont miss this unique opportunity to hear from one of the
greatest leaders of our time and learn from his experience. Re-
new your commitment to the HIV/AIDS struggle and be inspired by
the story of one who has fought impossible odds and emerged vic-
torious.
For more information please contact:
Parichatt Krongkant
Leadership Program Secretariat Coordinator
mailto:parichatt@aidsthai2004.org