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Mandela’s Former Prison Guard Visits Shorecrest, Advocates for Education

Source/Author: Rachel Martin, Director of Communications

November 20, 2015

Upper School News

Christo Brand, former prison guard and friend of Nelson Mandela, visited Shorecrest on November 17 as a special guest and speaker for the Willis Leadership Lecture series.

The Willis Leadership Lecture series invites four esteemed speakers annually to address the Shorecrest community. The theme for 2015 is “Race, Justice and Equality.”

During his time at Shorecrest, Brand shared very personal stories of his time guarding Nelson Mandela, with whom he developed a long-lasting friendship. Asked what his ultimate message was for students, Brand said, "To prioritize your education and take advantage of every opportunity."

In addition to addressing the Upper School for the leadership lecture, Mr. Brand joined small groups of students in AP World History, the Global Scholars Initiative, and an Upper School Sub Saharan Africa class. He also presented during a special assembly for the Middle School. (The Leadership Lecture was recorded and may be viewed here, beginning at the 8:30 mark.)

The Jacobson family, Marc, Lisa, Jordan and Eric, were instrumental in coordinating Mr. Brand’s visit after meeting him during a trip to South Africa. Bay News 9 covered the event and interviewed Jordan and Eric about their experience.

[Bay News 9 Video]