Mrs Steyn started the project following a challenge from Ms Zelda La Grange.
“My husband and I had a breakfast with Mr Mandela and Mrs Graça Machel, together with Ms La Grange. I started telling the ladies about my domestic abilities. I told them I can bake, knit and crochet. Ms La Grange then asked why I didn’t begin crocheting 67 blankets for Mandela Day. I said I would do it,” said Mrs Steyn.
She said her sister brought the wool for her to begin the project.
“It was Christmas day when I began, but after a few hours I felt the arthritis kicking in. I realised I would not be able to make 67 blankets on my own. I put the idea onto Facebook, asking my friends to get involved,” she said.
Mrs Steyn added that since then, the project has spread to other countries.
She said she plans to break the world record next April.
“We want to cover the ground at the feet of the Mandela statue at the Union Buildings with a sea of colours. We want to show the world what we are doing in South Africa to keep people warm in winter,” said Mrs Steyn.
She visited Jeppe High School for Girls to get pupils involved with the project.
“Being here is emotional for me. The idea of philanthropy and giving was instilled in these corridors, at Jeppe High School for Girls,” she said.
Mrs Steyn gave the school the wool to start crocheting.
Pupils vowed to carry on with the project.
For more information on the project, visit the Facebook page 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day (South Africa), or follow the group on Twitter, @67Blankets.
Alternatively, visit the website or www.67blankets.com for more information.
