As one of the most iconic people in the world, former South African President, Nelson Mandela was renowned for his kind heart and his quest for social justice.
It is through dedicating 67 years of his life to his cause of social justice, International Nelson Mandela Day was born. Held annually on July 18, Mandela Day sees people around the globe dedicating 67 minutes to community service and volunteer work.
On Thursday, Newcastillians embraced the initiative with several members dedicating 67 minutes of their time to a worthy cause.
Rising to the challenge of giving back to the community, Newcastle SAPS joined in on the Mandela Day celebrations.
Newcastle SAPS Spokesperson, Captain Jabulani Ncube says Newcastle SAPS Acting Station Commander, Colonel Mike Nkosi, Ward 25 Councillor Mqapheleni Ngcobo, Newcastle SAPS Detective-Commander Colonel JJ Kubheka, Lieutenant Colonel Ragunanan, and NGO Executive Committee member Sonto Sokhela, along with fellow members of Newcastle SAPS handed over clothing, groceries and cash to a mother of three in Siyahlahla-la Informal Settlement.
The beneficiary of the Newcastle SAPS donation recently lost everything after a fire burned down her home in the informal settlement.
“This is the Newcastle SAPS community outreach initiative, which is aimed at observing the 67 Minutes of the International icon Dr NR Mandela,” says Captain Ncube.
Morester Children’s Home saw a hive of support on Mandela Day, with the optometrist Davida van der Merwe and her team restoring the girls’ bathroom at the home.
The initiative to assist the home stems from siblings, Tanya van der Merwe and Vickie Steenkamp.
“This is our contribution to the day, as we wanted the children to have a lovely space where they can feel at home,” says Davida van der Merwe.
Thanking the sponsors who contributed to their cause, through supplying monetary donations, workers and paint, the team from the optometry was able to restore the girls’ bathroom.
“The boys’ bathroom and the lounge are also in need of restoration. We are actually looking at tackling the lounge next,” says Davida.
Planet Fitness also jumped to the occasion to support Morester Children’s Home on Mandela Day.
“We decided to do something for the community for Mandela Day, and with the recent background of Morester Children’s Home, we thought we would support them.”
On the day, the Planet Fitness team held a Zumba class, Bootcamp class and gave the children some tasty food and cake.
“At the end of the day, it is about spending quality time with the children,” he concludes.
Belinda Ellor of Morester Children’s Home says the home is in awe of the support they received. “It is amazing to see how businesses are opening their hearts to us. The home is grateful for the time and dedication everyone is showing.”
Well done to everyone who ensured Madiba’s legacy lives on through generous deeds.
