It’s inspiring to note how deeply entrenched the legacy of Nelson Mandela runs in the veins of Sandton’s schooling community.
The influence of Madiba showed in the level of support and participation shared with Kids Haven through its Build A Food Pyramid initiative for Mandela Day.
Connie Biyela from Kids Haven said the haven’s initiative, inspired by Tata Madiba’s legacy, honours his plight of ensuring that every child has a safe home to live in, food, clothing, and goes to school.
“As part of our Mandela Day, we are expecting schools, companies, and individuals to drop off their pyramids. We’re hoping to collect many cans of food towards supporting our children and their families from our pre-care and aftercare programme communities,” said Biyela.
“There are several schools that we work with that support Kids Haven and we are grateful for their support.”
She added they worked with Brescia House, Bryanston Parallel Medium School (BPMS), Bryanston Primary School, Fourways High School, St Stithians College, and Dainfern College.
“Some companies will do a pyramid at their offices and drop it off here, and some come to build their pyramids here at our donation office. This will be running throughout Nelson Mandela Day, and on July 19, we will have some people drop off then as well.”
Learners from BPMS delivered their pyramids to Kids Haven on Mandela Day as a part of their 67 minutes of service in honour of Madiba.
Mandela once said, “There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to help others, without expecting anything in return.”
True to these words, BPMS donated 565 meals-in-a-bag to Kids Haven in Bryanston, a contribution which is expected to provide food to 2 260 people.
“Our hearts are filled with gratitude for the time, energy and contributions that the BPMS community (children, parents, and teachers) made towards the BPMS Build a Food Pyramid project,” said BPMS administrator Muriel Maree.
“A heartfelt big thank you for supporting this community project. Your contributions will not only warm tummies but also hearts.”
Kids Haven visited Bryanston Primary School to celebrate Nelson Mandela Day with them on July 19.
Social sciences teachers Daniel Burger and Tiaan Rheeder arranged an opportunity for learners from the school to each contribute something to the school’s pyramid for Kids Haven, in keeping the spirit of Nelson Mandela alive.
“It is every day that we should be looking to remind ourselves of the legacy of the man who dedicated his life to sacrifice, justice, and a love for all the people of South Africa,” Burger said to the
learners. A message many will keep for life.
Related article: Many hands in Sandton rise against hunger for Madiba’s legacy
