This is for all our USA Nando’s lovers but also a message for Nando’s South Africa… don’t be chicken, we want this amazing initiative at home too, asseblief!
America (18 July 2024) – Imagine stepping into your local Nando’s and being greeted with the tantalising aroma of flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken, knowing that your visit is also making a difference in your community.
Today, this delicious scenario is a reality in some stores in the USA as Nando’s celebrates Nelson Mandela Day by offering free chicken in exchange for school supplies or financial donations.
Nelson Mandela Day, observed annually on July 18, honours the remarkable life and legacy of South African leader and anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela. Established by the United Nations in 2009, this day calls on people worldwide to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles and to make a positive impact in their own communities. It’s a day dedicated to service, community, and the spirit of giving—principles that Mandela championed throughout his life.
The importance of Nelson Mandela Day lies in its call to action.
It’s a day that encourages everyone to step up and contribute to the greater good, echoing Mandela’s belief in the power of community and collective effort. This day reminds us that we all have the ability to effect positive change, no matter how small our actions might seem.
Ubuntu Goes Global
The concept of Ubuntu – an idea rooted in the belief that our common humanity binds us – originates from South Africa and has been catching fire around the globe. Nando’s, a South African-born fast-casual chain, is embodying this spirit in America by using Mandela Day as an opportunity to give back to local communities.
From 4-7 p.m. today, customers can receive a free flame-grilled chicken leg or breast at any spice level by donating at least one school supply item or making a financial donation at participating Nando’s Peri-Peri locations in Arlington, including Ballston, Pentagon City, and Rosslyn.
“We hope that Nando’s fans everywhere will embrace this iconic day of giving,” said Nando’s Chief Brand Officer Sepanta Bagherpour in a press release. “So drop off school supplies for our local students in need and enjoy some delicious PERi-PERi flame-grilled chicken in the process.”
The supplies collected at these locations will be delivered to Carlin Springs Elementary in Arlington’s Glencarlyn neighbourhood, ensuring that local youth in need receive the support they deserve.
While we applaud Nando’s for spreading the spirit of Ubuntu across the USA, we can’t help but wonder why a similar initiative isn’t sizzling in South Africa. After all, what better way to honour Mandela’s legacy than by giving back in the land that gave birth to both Mandela and Nando’s?
So come on, Nando’s, don’t be chicken!
Maybe America’s Nelson Mandela Day initiative will fire up some generosity in your South African stores (and roots) to do something similar next year.
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