Global Pledge

Race for Peace (RFP)

This Pledge establishes the guiding principles, aims, and commitments of the Race for Peace (RFP), a global initiative inspired by the resilience of youth, rooted in the powerful legacy of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, and driven by the vision of Nelson Mandela. 2026, marks 50 years since that historic uprising, when 100s of young people lost their lives making a stand against the injustices of Apartheid. This event honours the sacrifice of those young people and celebrates the innocence and potential of today’s youth. By harnessing the universal language of sport, particularly the symbolic act of a 5K walk, jog or run, we unite communities across borders in a collective call for peace, understanding, and a better future.

Foundational Principle: What is Peace?

Peace is a state of harmony, calm, and mutual respect. It is shaped by inclusion, fairness, and understanding. At its foundation, peace is sustained through open and empathetic communication that builds trust and fosters connection. Peace lives where communities are safe, individuals are respected, and youth are nurtured with dignity and hope.

We affirm the African philosophy of Ubuntu - “I am because we are” - as a guiding force in our mission. The Spirit of Ubuntu reflects the deep interconnectedness of all people, and the strength found in compassion, collaboration, communication, and shared responsibility.

Vision and Purpose

RFP uses the universal language of sport: a 5K walk, jog or run as a symbol of global unity. Participants engage not in competition, but in solidarity, honouring past sacrifices and taking steps together toward a more compassionate future.

This movement seeks to:

Empower Youth as leaders of positive change
Commemorate the 1976 Soweto Uprising and its legacy
Create partnerships between schools and youth organizations worldwide
Foster intercultural understanding and dialogue
Promote open communication as a foundation for mutual respect and shared growth
Raise funds to support youth-centred development and learning

Core Values

Youth Empowerment: We recognise youth as agents of change and stewards of peace.
Global Solidarity: We stand united across borders, cultures, and communities.
Remembrance and Hope: We honour the past while building a future grounded in justice and reconciliation.
Education and Dialogue: We promote intercultural exchange and learning as tools for peace.
Action through Unity: We believe sport, especially the shared act of participation, can unite where words sometimes fail.

Aims of the RFP

To mark the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising through peaceful global mobilisation.
To promote intercultural understanding and peace amongst youth and communities.
To create lasting partnerships between schools and youth groups internationally.
To elevate youth voices through the Ubuntu Ambassadors programme.
To raise awareness and funding for youth-focused peace and development initiatives.

2026 Participation and Scope

The Race for Peace will be held on June 16, 2026, in partnership with communities across the world. Confirmed participating locations include:

Soweto (South Africa)
Newcastle upon Tyne (UK)
London (UK)
Neuchâtel (Switzerland)
Shinshiro (Japan)

We expect more than 20 countries to participate. Each local event will reflect the shared spirit of Ubuntu, while raising support for youth initiatives. Proceeds from event merchandise will benefit youth programs in participating regions.

The Race for Peace will be organised in partnership with the Youth Charter for Sport, Arts and Digital Inclusion.

A Call to Action

Race for Peace invites every community, school, and individual to stand united in the pursuit of peace. Whether walking, jogging, or running, participation is a powerful act of solidarity. We are building a world where peace is more than a dream - it is a shared journey.

Let us participate not just for ourselves, but for our children, our communities, and our future.

Commitments of Signatories

By endorsing this Pledge, individuals, schools, organisations, and communities commit to:

Upholding the values of peace, equity, and the Spirit of Ubuntu
Supporting the active participation of youth as peacebuilders
Encouraging collaboration across cultures, regions, and generations
Using sport and education as tools for connection and healing

Upholding the legacy of those who gave their lives in the pursuit of dignity and equality.

Ubuntu Ambassadors

Ndileka and Nandi Mandela, granddaughters of Nelson Mandela, serve as Ubuntu Ambassadors for the Race for Peace. Through their support and leadership, they embody the values of compassion, dignity, and unity that lie at the heart of this movement.

Their involvement honours the legacy of their grandfather, who personally endorsed the Race for Peace in 1994, recognising the power of sport to bring people together and the vital role of youth in building a more just and peaceful world.

GLOBAL PLEDGE