via itv.com

Even though Nelson Mandela does not turn 90 until July 18th, his birthday celebrations have already begun. In London’s Hyde Park last night, celebrities and friends of the former South African President gathered for a birthday dinner that raised funds for Mandela’s campaign against HIV/AIDS called ‘46664’. The unusual figure comes from Mandela’s prison number that he wore for 27 years when he was behind bars for his anti-apartheid activism.

Some A-list celebrities that attended the dinner included Oprah Winfrey, Will Smith, Uma Thurman, Denzel Washington, Robert De Niro, and Forest Whitaker.

There will also be a concert tomorrow night honoring Mandela.

Send a birthday wish to Nelson Mandela at the following website: www.happybirthdaymandela.com

Contributed by CGG Youth Reporter Christine Lenzo