Thousands of blankets for Nelson Mandela Day
Thousands of blankets from across the world placed at the feet of Nelson Mandela.
Thousands of blankets made by hand across the world for the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day campaign were spread out at the feet of the late statesman’s statue at the Union Buildings on Monday.
Nelson Mandela Foundation CEO Sello Hatang thanked everyone who did their part to give more people protection against the cold this winter.
“We are honoured to be associated with this initiative which we hope will help build a more cohesive society, especially during these trying times faced by our country. We hope it will help stitch our wounded nation and restore dignity,” he said.
For several months, 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day has been encouraging South Africans to knit, sew or crochet a blanket, it has managed to knit together communities in such a positive way, and will continue to do.
Carolyn Steyn, the founder of the campaign, was ecstatic over the number of blankets received this year, not just from South Africans, but also from groups in the USA, India, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Cyprus, London and in the Netherlands.
“It’s raining blankets and we are being inundated with the most beautiful handmade blankets that are still being delivered from knit-wits all over. All the blankets will be laid out at the feet of the Nelson Mandela Statue,” said Steyn.
“This record-breaking attempt is just one step in our incredible journey – one which promises to, stitch by stitch, keep South Africans warm in winter.”
Mrs South Africa, Sarah-Cate Scott, who also attended the event, said Steyn was a role model for her.
“Everything we are doing today was an idea that became a reality and this is all thanks to her. She is such an inspiration to so many South Africans. This is just such a motivation, showing that when we as South Africans unite, we can achieve so much.”
A friend of Steyn who also attended the event, Juanita James, also sees Steyn as an inspiration.
“She is such an inspiration for achieving international support with this idea of hers, that was inspired by Nelson Mandela, perpetuating what he stood for. Pulling in the support of people through love and wanting to give. I have such a huge admiration for her and her generous heart,” James said.
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