A lively atmosphere of camaraderie filled ArcelorMittal South Africa’s (AMSA) Newcastle Works on Thursday morning, 18 July 2024, as employees came together for a worthy cause. AMSA seized the opportunity to honour Mandela Day by making a significant impact on the residents of Nil Desperandum.
Dietmar Schmidtke, General Manager of AMSA’s Long Steel Products, explained that AMSA Newcastle Works organised a team-building initiative where employees participated in a fun walk/run with a twist.
“We decided to hold a team building event and as it is Mandela Day, we asked participating employees to bring non-perishable food items, which would be donated to Nil Desperandum. Giving back to the community is important to us, as AMSA Newcastle Works holds the Newcastle community close to its heart, with many employees living within the area,” said Schmidtke.
Furthermore, AMSA’s Joe Nowbath added that AMSA’s Newcastle Works reached out to Nil Desperandum after discovering that the facility was facing financial challenges. “We heard that Nil Desperandum was in need, and after visiting them, we found they were struggling and required food. As a company dedicated to the community, we felt we had to help,” declared Nowbath.
Therefore, and in honour of former South African President Nelson Mandela’s compassion, the company held its fun walk/run on Mandela Day, after which employees’ donations were handed over to Nil Desperandum.
It should be highlighted that Nelson Mandela International Day (or Mandela Day) is an annual international day in honour of Nelson Mandela, celebrated each year on 18 July, Mandela’s birthday.
The day was officially declared by the United Nations in November 2009, with the first UN Mandela Day held on 18 July 2010.
Speaking on behalf of the home, Nil Desperandum’s Eleanor van der Westhuizen extended her gratitude to the steel company. “It is greatly appreciated, as we are in need of support. AMSA’s donation of non-perishable foods and blankets will really help us.”
However, the home, which caters for various disabled people, requires further assistance. Van der Westhuizen explained that the home currently cares for 27 people and desperately needs support from the community. “We would appreciate assistance with adult nappies, vegetables, and other groceries,” she noted.
If anyone is willing to assist Nil Desperandum further, they can contact the Association on 034 315 4003 or visit them at 92 Bird Street.
With AMSA stepping up to help Nil Desperandum and a further call for assistance going out, let us all honour Madiba’s legacy and remember his words, “There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to helping others without expecting anything in return.”
What are your thoughts on the above? Share your views in the comment section below.
Comments 4
I would’ve thought with the amount of people that worked at Mittal more people would have donated. That looks like 5% of the workforce If that donated to them. It would’ve also been great if the Newcastle Mittal self also donated, I know these people aren’t asking for the best, so bedding from Pep would’ve been appreciated and tinned food as it lasts long and you can use some of it in many ways to stretch food.
I’m disappointed to see that’s all that was donated from the biggest company and most workers in Newcastle
You do realise they didn’t have to donate anything to anyone…. Only a Newcastle person will somehow live up to the reputation of this town and moan or complain about people doing something positive. Cheer up, crack a smile, get some action and cheer up. Well done to the staff and company for caring for others. Don’t listen to drips like this chick, your efforts are appreciated.
How much have you donated to this organisation? I am guessing nothing. Keep being a keyboard warrior.
Glad to see people still honoring Mandeka day my question is to nil desperadum why do you not have your own veggie gardens as I read you ask for veggies you always used to it would help a lot ask the community to help to set it up and the residents can maintain them I would definitely help