Toby Shapshak: Pattern Recognition

from three to 20 minutes.

But ask anyone who has seen Sir Ken Robinson’s joyous discussion on the importance of education — or Brené Brown’s discourse on the power of vulnerability, or even Terry Moore’s life-changing, three-minute lesson on the correct way to tie your shoelaces — and they will confirm that TED talks have become the inspirational, trend-setting public lectures of our time.

But the grand old public lecture is one of the most prestigious of stages, especially when it is done to honour someone like Mandela. Past speakers have included former US president Bill Clinton, archbishop Desmond Tutu, economist Thomas Piketty and Mo Ibrahim, whose foundation rewards African governance.

Gates praised Africa for its gains and innovation — including money service M-Pesa and clever uses of mobile technology in education — but reminded the audience that there are still mountains of poverty and disease that need moving.

“It’s clear to everyone how big and complicated the challenges are,” Gates said. He is still the chairman of Microsoft, which is still the biggest software company in the world.

“But it’s just as clear that people with bravery, energy, intellect, passion and stamina can face big, complicated challenges and overcome them. There is so much more work to be done to create a future in which we can all live together.”

True to his tech roots, Gates said: “One of the most exciting prospects is the role African governments can play in accelerating the use of digital technology to leapfrog the traditional models and costly infrastructure associated with banking and delivery of government services.”

Gates, like Mandela, believes in the power and potential of the youth. He also celebrated “the ingenuity of the African people”. It’s up to us to prove both great men right.