Christo Brand met Mandela in 1978 on Robben Island. Mandela was 60 years old, and Christo Brand a young man. As a young man in Apartheid South Africa, he was supposed to join the army. By joining the prison service, he avoided the wars

He was sent to Robben Island, and put at the political wing, where his job was to guard Mandela, Sisulu, Kathadra and the others. Over the years, a kind of respect and friendship grew between the prisoners and their warden. After the release, Christo started working as an assistant to Mandela.

This friendship lasted until Mandela died in 2013. Until 31st July 2018 Christo continued working in the bookshop on Robben Island. From today he has retired, and will travel to tell his unique story.

In June he was in London, where he was invited to the House of Lords. He also spoke at a dinner for South Africa Chamber of Commerce, hosted by DLA Piper. He was also specially invited to Obamas speach at the event in Johannesburg 17th July