South African freedom fighter Nelson Mandela gave 67 years of his life to the bettering of the world, starting from the launch of his human rights campaign in 1942.

Joining other groups around the world, Imagine Bermuda is calling for local residents to support Nelson Mandela International Day on July 18 by giving 67 minutes’ service to another person.

The community group has joined with the African Diaspora Heritage Trail Bermuda Foundation in promoting Mr Mandela’s example.

Mandela, who died on December 5, 2013, proved an enduring inspiration to Bermuda’s activists, political leaders and community figures.

According to the foundation created in his name, July 18 stands as a global call for people to recognise their power as individuals to effect change.

“Support can also be given by volunteering at least 67 minutes with any registered charity group in Bermuda that may need help,” said Glenn Fubler of Imagine Bermuda.

“Another option for participating in Nelson Mandela International Day is to make friends with a person whose culture is different from your own. We live and work among people from other nations. July 18 will provide an opportunity to extend the hand of friendship to someone new.”

The group also suggested using the time to help out a neighbour or relative, or spending it on a simple act of service such as picking up trash. “We are asking everyone on the Island to join in observing 67 seconds of silence at 10am on July 18,” Mr Fubler said.

“This activity will allow us to come together in a spirit of collective consciousness and reflect on how individually, we might make a difference. Over the next two weeks, we will share ideas and suggestions about activities and events residents of Bermuda can participate in to support this United Nations sanctioned, international day of service for humanity.”