Nelson Mandela’s Journey Comes to Life

Seattle’s Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) is set to host a powerful new exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela. “Mandela: The Official Exhibition” opens May 24, offering an immersive look one of the world’s most influential leaders in the fight for justice and equality.

The timing of this exhibition is especially significant, as 2025 marks the 35th anniversary of Mandela’s release from prison—a turning point in the global struggle against apartheid. On February 11, 1990, after 27 years behind bars, Mandela walked free, setting South Africa on a path toward democracy and becoming its first Black president just four years later.

Produced by Round Room Live in partnership with The Royal House of Mandela, the exhibition brings together over 150 artifacts, including personal belongings, rare photos, and never-before-seen film footage. Visitors will explore pivotal moments in Mandela’s life—from his early years and rise as a lawyer to his leadership in the anti-apartheid movement, his long imprisonment, and his role in shaping a democratic South Africa.

What makes this exhibition unique is its deeply personal approach. Through firsthand accounts from family members, friends, and those who worked alongside him, guests will gain a rare, intimate perspective on the man behind the movement. Interactive elements, multimedia installations, and recreated environments transport visitors into key moments of his story.

Seattle’s own connection to Mandela’s fight for justice is also featured. The exhibition highlights the city’s role in the global anti-apartheid movement, including Seattle’s early boycott of South African goods and Mandela’s 1999 visit to the city.

“Nelson Mandela’s life story is a testament to resilience, equity, and the transformative power of education,” said MOHAI Executive Director Leonard Garfield. “This exhibition aligns with our commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of history and inspiring conversations that connect the past to the present.”

Mandela: The Official Exhibition opens May 24 at MOHAI for a limited time. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to experience the legacy of a global icon.