A Day to Remember: Dr. Siyabulela Mandela Visits Kitigan Zibi and Inspires the OCSB Community
Sometimes, a day at school becomes something more—a moment that stays with you. That’s precisely what happened when the Ottawa Catholic School Board students and staff had the honour of welcoming Dr. Siyabulela Mandela, Nelson Mandela’s great-grandson, into their learning journey.
Opening Doors – Building Bridges
Dr. Mandela’s visit began at Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, where he was received not just as a guest, but with open hearts and open doors. Guided by Laurel MacDonald-Boucher and Lindsay McCart, he was welcomed by Kelly Diabo, Sylvia Morin, community Elders, and knowledge keepers at the Kitigan Zibi Cultural Centre. There, he explored a living history—touring sacred artifacts, listening deeply to stories of resilience from residential school survivors, and sharing moments of quiet reflection rooted in mutual respect and understanding.
Celebrating Culture
At Kitigan Zibi Kikinamadinan, the energy shifted to celebration. Students gathered in a traditional drumming circle, filling the space with rhythm and pride. Kokum Shirley offered an Anishinaabemowin prayer, grounding the gathering in spirit and language. Dr. Mandela then spoke to elementary and junior/intermediate students, weaving stories from his great-grandfather’s legacy with his message of hope. His message was clear: education is power, and every young person has a voice worth using.
The day closed as it began—in community. With traditional food, shared laughter, and a special gift presented by Principal Freeda Morin, the visit wasn’t just a one-day event. It was the beginning of deeper dialogue, shared learning, and a decisive step forward on reconciliation.
Immaculata High School – Nourishing New Beginnings
The next day, that spirit carried into the heart of Ottawa, where Immaculata High School opened its doors with joy and purpose. Student leaders lined the halls with signs of welcome—handmade messages of peace, hope, and reconciliation that spoke volumes before a word was spoken. The choir sang. The band played. The community stood together.
Dr. Mandela didn’t just speak to students—he connected with them. He met with members of Team Mikinak, the Black Student Association, the Muslim Student Association, and other student leaders, listening to their stories and sharing his own. He spoke of being a high school student just 16 years ago, passionate about justice and ready to act. He reminded them that leadership is not about age or titles—it’s about courage, unity, and the will to make a difference. “United we stand, divided we fall,” he said—and in that moment, his words were more than a quote. They were a call.
As he toured the school and stepped into the Mamidosewin Room, Dr. Mandela witnessed how student voices have shaped Immaculata’s growing relationship with Kitigan Zibi. One powerful highlight was a gift exchange honouring the Oromo people and the Mandela legacy—linking communities across continents through shared strength and perseverance.
From drumming circles to dialogue, from art and culture to shared meals and meaningful connections, Dr. Mandela’s visit reminded us that reconciliation isn’t a concept—it’s a choice—a living, breathing commitment to walk together, listen deeply, and build something better for all.
We are thankful to every student, educator, community partner, and leader who made this visit possible. We also extend our gratitude to Dr. Mandela for demonstrating how education can open both hearts and minds.
