With Mandela Day around the corner and much uncertainty in the air, it is important to reflect and learn so we can create a better future. Mandela Day is now perhaps more important than ever! Here is why it is still relevant:
South Africa (15 July 2024) – Living in an uncertain world, people often feel uneasy as they wonder if things will get better. It’s also tempting during periods like these to hunker down and focus on our own needs. Still, it’s equally important to look up and look around and find inspiration and unity in the good that is happening in our communities. By leaning on each other, we get the support and drive we need to reach further and help lift others. With Mandela Day coming up, we are reminded that perhaps now more than ever, we need each other. Here are three reasons why Mandela Day is still such an important day to South Africans.
Ongoing social issues
Many of the issues Nelson Mandela fought against, such as inequality and poverty, are still relevant in today’s South Africa, and Mandela Day is a call to action for everyone to tackle these challenges together.
Relate Bracelets is a 100% non-profit organisation that sells beaded bracelets to raise money for a range of causes doing meaningful work in SA, such as The Amy Foundation, who develop and empower youngsters from challenged and vulnerable communities, providing them with a sense of self-worth and purpose, and Ikamva Labantu, who work with elders. Finally, Ladles of Love addresses food insecurity and works to uplift impoverished communities.
“Mandela Day is about celebrating the life and works of Nelson Mandela through volunteering and community service. SA has so many charities that are making a real difference in communities, and by supporting one that aligns with your values you can help to bring about positive change,” says Dalit Shekel, CEO of Relate.
“Charities often operate on the front lines, facing challenging situations as they address critical issues. Having support from the public helps to amplify their efforts and impact, and every contribution – big and small – adds up, creating a powerful force for change,” adds Shekel.
The social and environmental causes that Relate raises money for range from helping children and the elderly to protecting bees, elephants, and rhinos and getting clean water to rural villages. So, if you can’t help a charity of your choice on Mandela Day, just buying one of Relate’s bracelets will financially benefit that cause.
Promoting positive change
Mandela Day inspires us with action, encouraging South Africans to contribute positively to society. 67 minutes is all it takes – each minute representing a year that Nelson Mandela fought for social justice.
And, says Michelle Bagley, Communications Manager of The Amy Foundation, 67 minutes of your time can make a big difference in someone’s life.
“By dedicating at least 67 minutes once a month, people can contribute to sustainable change and foster a culture of continuous support and development,” she advises.
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“There are many ways people can help in this way, such as donating time to read, draw, and colour with children, or contributing clothing, books, and non-perishable items, directly impacts and enriches the lives of those we serve. Giving of your time is so meaningful. In today’s economic climate, it may be difficult for many of us to spare extra funds, but time is valuable, too, and can really make a difference in someone’s life.”
Unity and reconciliation
Reconciliation and peace are two recurring themes on Mandela Day. In times of uncertainty, this is especially important. By staying unified and supporting each other, we can work together to build a better future for all South Africans.
Tonia Wyngaard, Donor Relations Officer at Ikamva Labantu, supports this ethos and says:
“Mandela Day remains deeply relevant in the context of our work with children, youth, families, and older persons in under-resourced communities. In these communities, the strength and courage of our people shine brightly as they rise each day to support and uplift their neighbours.”
Ikamva Labantu works with elders and community leaders by following their direction, acknowledging their ownership and providing access to resources and opportunities.
“By honouring Mandela’s legacy on this day, we recognise the resilience and spirit of communal solidarity that fuels the efforts of individuals to create positive change within their communities,” continues Wyngaard.
As we celebrate Mandela Day, we are reminded of the importance of unity, compassion, and collective action in building a more just and equitable society for all.
A brighter tomorrow
Mandela Day holds special significance as it embodies the values and principles that Nelson Mandela dedicated his life to, particularly the spirit of selfless service and community upliftment.
Being in touch with the Nelson Mandela Foundation for the past 5 years, Ladles of Love truly understands the purpose of Mandela Day. Together with the foundation, they work together to alleviate hunger and create a better world for children.
“As a South African organisation, our ethos centres around ubuntu”, says Matthew Mulhall from Ladles of Love. “Nelson Mandela is the icon of ubuntu and his legacy and our vision are 100% aligned”, continues Mulhall.
“We are proud to be collaborating with Relate Bracelets who we have been working with since the beginning of the Covid-19 lockdowns in South Africa. They have kindly donated 200 bracelets towards our Mandela Day fundraising goal and will be joining us on the day to help sell them. As founder of Ladles of Love, we love the work they do, creating opportunities for those less privileged, uplifting their lives, uplifting their souls”, says Danny Diliberto, Founder and CEO of Ladles of Love.
“This day is a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to make a positive impact in our communities. The act of giving back 67 minutes on Mandela Day honours the 67 years Mandela fought for social justice, but it is essential to recognise that this spirit of giving should extend beyond just one day a year,” says Shekel.
Consistent involvement ensures that the values of compassion, empathy, and community service become integral parts of our lives, leading to long-term benefits for those in need and a more united society.
Overall, Mandela Day is a powerful and necessary reminder of past principles that still hold power today. There is a need for action in the pursuit of a more equal and just society, and by working together and remembering the legacy, we can reach a brighter future.
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