Say Happy Birthday to Nelson Mandela

Send a text. To Nelson Mandela. And raise a load of money for a handful of charitable organisations at the same time.

A mix of shared and dedicated premium rate shortcodes have been set up in over 20 countries around the world, offering the chance for millions to text their own 90th birthday message to the former South African president. According to 46664, Mandela’s global awareness campaign for HIV/AIDS and the company behind the initiative, this will be one of the biggest premium SMS fundraising initiatives ever staged and ‘the world’s biggest virtual birthday card’.

In London, a 90th birthday concert staged in London’s Hyde Park on 27 June echoed the call to action to Text Nelson Mandela Happy Birthday. The campaign runs until 18 July, so you’ve got plenty of time to compose your message to one of the world’s greatest figures. (No pressure.)

And, of course, all profits received from text charges will go to charities that Mandela supports.
As, 46664 International Director, Tim Massey says, “A text-based service allows more people to feel part of the celebrations in a very simple way, and we hope will raise significant revenues to support the ongoing work of the charities that bear Mr. Mandela’s name and 46664.”

This campaign is extremely impressive logistically – there are more than 14 companies providing services to get this up and running. It’s also impressive for its simplicity. Text happy birthday. Raise money. Feel good.

All enabled by mobile. Lovely.