67 crocheted blankets for Madiba Day
This project stems from a challenge Zelda le Grange, Nelson Mandela’s trusted assistant, posed to Carolyn Steyn in December 2013 to knit 67 blankets.
“I never thought I would learn how to crochet at my age,” echoed the words through the passages of the six Guvon Hotels and four Spas, as well as Guvon head office the past two months.
With every twist of the wrist, a new crochet block was in the making towards Guvon Hotels’ 67 blankets it contributed to the 67 Blankets for Mandela Day project.
“We are so proud that 120 employees took up the challenge and produced these beautiful colourful blankets, which we handed over to Arlene Snoek from 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day,” said Alta Thorpe, HR irector at Guvon Hotels & Spas.
“We love that we are contributing to keeping people from all walks of life warm this and hopefully many winters to come. So much love has gone into this project.”
Reta Coetzee who heads up Central Reservations at Guvon Hotels pointed out that the whole process also cemented relations between employees.
“Where everyone used to do their own thing, during the project we spent lunch times crocheting, knitting and just taking time to catch up with each other. It’s been a precious time to get to know our fellow workers. Next year we want to start earlier and see if we can double our number of blankets.”
This project stems from a challenge Zelda le Grange, Nelson Mandela’s trusted assistant, posed to Carolyn Steyn in December 2013 to knit 67 blankets. These blankets then would be distributed to those in need on Nelson Mandela Day.
Carolyn gladly accepted the challenge but soon realised she wouldn’t be able to achieve it alone. She called on her friends for help and created the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day Facebook group. The initiative has gained local and international momentum, and is going from strength to strength.
Proud participants in the project are from:
• Kloofzicht Lodge & Spa
• Glenburn Lodge and Chicama Spa
• Askari Game Lodge & Spa
• The Fairway Hotel & Golf Resort
Related articles:
• Krugersdorp Police celebrate Mandela Day
• Fresh approach by police on Mandela Day
• Madiba Day the Muldersdrift way
