Exceptional doesn't begin to describe Mandela. As a leader, South African President Nelson Mandela demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities, including advocacy for peace, powerful presence that disarmed enemies with his smile, high level of forgiveness, positive thinking, ability to see the big picture, focus on goals and missions beyond himself. He was an anti-apartheid activist who was sentenced to life in prison for plotting to overthrow the government through the use of violence. Despite protests and demonstrations from people across the world demanding for his freedom, Mandela spent twenty-seven years in prison. He was released in February of 1990, and went on to lead South Africa’s first multi-racial political elections. Nelson Mandela was an inspirational figure for everyone, but he is especially inspirational for youth. He exemplifies all of the qualities that people strive to have, and he dedicated his life to human justice. If young people follow even a few of Mandela’s examples, volunteer in their communities, and take the time to help others then they will have a better understanding of people in general. Volunteering and aiding others, even children their own age, can help young people develop acceptance and tolerance, stop bullying, and bring an end to school violence. Young people need a positive role model like Nelson Mandela, and for that reason it is important to keep his achievements and successes alive.