WATCH: Local organisations emulate Madiba’s humanitarian work

This year marks what would have been Madiba’s 106th birthday.

5 hours ago

Fanie Mthupha 2 minutes read

"Thank you Madiba," said James Thwala, one of the hundreds who came to get something to eat.

In celebration of Nelson Mandela International Day, at least 25 local organisations joined hands to celebrate the day by taking part in various acts of kindness.

The lawn outside the Boksburg Civic Centre was turned into what resembled a flea market of some sort as they set up their stalls, where they fed hundreds of hungry residents and handed out clothing, including shoes and socks.

The beneficiaries, mostly vulnerable children and women, could not hide their joy as they received and devoured their meals.

Hundreds queue up to get something to eat at the Mandela Day celebration outside the civic centre in Boksburg.

Ward 32 Clr Marius de Vos delivered the welcoming speech at the celebration

“On behalf of the ward committee and the office of the customer care manager, we are honoured to have you join us as we commemorate the life and legacy of Madiba, a champion of justice, equality, and human rights.

“As business leaders, you play a vital role in shaping our community and contributing to the well-being of our society. Your presence here today demonstrates your commitment to giving back and making a positive impact.

Clothing, including shoes, socks and beanies, was donated to the needy during the event outside the civic centre.

“Mandela Day is a call to action, encouraging us to take 67 minutes out of our day to make a difference in the lives of others. We are excited to share this experience with you and explore ways we can work together to address social challenges and create a more compassionate and inclusive world.

“Let us take a moment to reflect on Madiba’s wisdom: ‘We can change the world and make it a better place’. Let us celebrate Madiba’s legacy and continue his work towards a brighter future for all.”

Event organisers

Among the organisations that dedicated their time and resources to serving the needy at the event are: Achiever Real Estate, Aida Real Estate, Grose Property Group, Trinity Properties, Sweet Deal Properties, Discovery, Get Go Home Loans, Hammond Pole Attorneys, Bavin Incorporated Attorneys, Razak Attorneys, Tuckers Incorporated, Matsemela, Krauses & Ngubeni Incorporated Attorneys, Savvy, Mortgage Market, Keller Williams, KW Clockwork, Brandon Dillon photography, Prevance, FNB’s volunteer programme, Boksburg Spar and Sunward Park Spar, Nedbank, Mortgage Market and Virgin Active, as well as ward committee members and patrollers and volunteers from the Boksburg SAPS.

James Thwala of Windmill Park, seen with one of the Mandela Day event volunteers, was among the hundreds who came to get something to eat.

East Rand Mall feeds 2000 pupils
As part of their 67 minutes to serving others during this global observance on July 18, the East Rand Mall team visited Comet Primary School in Cason, where they fed the entire school population.
Each child received a hot meal and soft drink for lunch.