Casual Day ambassadors have issued their annual challenge to the youth of South Africa to spring into action for persons with disabilities.
Thuli Matlala, 2J Harmonix, Patrick Mashegwana and Khumo Moyane spent time at a recent music concert to get the endorsement of DJ Zubz and TV presenter Lezanne Naidoo for this year’s Casual Day campaign.
“A small army of Casual Day ambassadors is currently criss-crossing the country to tell South Africans that Casual Day is on September 4 this year and the theme is Spring into Action,” said Andrea Vinassa, media liaison for Casual Day.
“In honour of Youth Month and to commemorate June 16, they are encouraging young people to follow their lead and volunteer for Casual Day by helping organisations to raise donations for stickers and to get their schools to celebrate the day.”
“Most of us were introduced to Casual Day at school and this is an ideal way to introduce students to the idea of volunteering their time to a worthy cause,” said Moyane, who matriculated at Pretoria School for Learners with Disabilities.
“Casual Day raises awareness of persons with disabilities and a school environment is the best place to get children on board.
“Casual Day is one of the school’s fund-raisers and, without the education I received at the school, I would not have graduated from college and had the opportunity to become employed.
“There are hundreds of schools for children with disabilities all over the country that benefit from Casual Day funding, and Casual Day is a fun way for students to do their community service.”
“I was really chuffed to meet underground hip hop legend DJ Zubz, who is not only a brilliant artist, but also a socially conscious person who has spent much time with disadvantaged youth in the townships of Soweto and Alex,” said Casual Day ambassador, rapper and motivational speaker 2J Harmonix.
“I was so proud when I saw him wearing his Casual Day sticker and I hope that his endorsement will inspire youth in those areas to support our cause.”
Zubz said he is impressed with how 2J Harmonix uses his music to tell the story of how he lives with muscular dystrophy.
“I have always wanted to share the stage with 2J Harmonix,” said DJ Zubz.
“Previously, he would see me on stage while in my audience, this time I got to see him on stage while I was in his audience. Soon, we will get to share a stage, an audience and complete the cypher.”
Matlala has her own company that works to change attitudes about disability.
“I invite all young celebrities and media personalities to use your fame to endorse Casual Day,” she said.
“The fund-raiser provides the country with the opportunity to show solidarity with persons with disabilities, at the same time enjoying togetherness with fellow participants.”
“We are building bridges between the community of persons with disabilities and the society in which they live, and encouraging them to participate in Casual Day,” concluded Mashegwana.
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