Today (Nov. 28) , a South African newspaper published a letter written by Beyoncé, where she addressed to the late, revolutionary and political leader, Nelson Mandela.
The letter, titled, “Dear Mabida by Beyoncé Knowles-Carter,” consists of Bey expressing her admiration for the former President of South Africa, how he has impacted her life, and how it still resonates with her every day.
“I first met you in 2004 for the 46664 Aids Benefit Concert in Cape Town,” she wrote. “Your kindness and gratitude for every experience, and your ability to forgive, are lessons I have learned and will pass on to my three children... My entire family holds you in high regard.”
Beyoncé also revealed how much of an honor it is for her to celebrate Mandela in his home country for the 2018 Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100.
“It is an honor for me to travel to South Africa this week in celebration of you and your efforts to right so many wrongs,” she wrote. “You were a strategic warrior, a bold activist and charismatic and well-loved leader. Your vision for dignity, for human rights, for peace and a South Africa free of racism and apartheid, allows us all to turn dreams into reality.”
“As we celebrate the Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100, honoring your centennial year, I promise you that we have made your dreams our own. Your work and your sacrifices were not in vain. I will cherish every moment shared in your presence and use the lessons learned from you as fuel to stir positive ideas and solutions."
To read Beyoncé’s full letter, head over to Beyoncé's website.