Helderberg organisations marked Mandela Day by dedicating 67 minutes to serve communities, from feeding children to rescuing animals.

International Nelson Mandela Day (18 July) encourages individuals to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to helping others. One minute for every year Mandela devoted to public service. This year’s theme was “It Is In Your Hands”.

Strand police got an early start on Friday (17 July), splitting their 67 minutes between two communities to share Mandela’s spirit of caring in Casablanca and Erijaville.

The police officers first collaborated with Phoenix Sports Academy, which runs a feeding programme in Casablanca. Established in 2018, the programme feeds between 30 and 40 children daily, providing morning meals that help them focus at school and prevent absenteeism.

Sergeant Janine Memeza explained that poverty is a critical issue in Strand communities, which is why they joined forces with the programme to show their support.

For the second half of the initiative, the police, together with the Strand Community Policing Forum, distributed food in Erijaville to both children and adults.

In another corner of the Helderberg, Unashamedly Ethical, a social justice organisation, and Hope & Light Children’s Village spent more than 67 minutes on their Mandela Day project, but the extra time honoured Mandela’s belief that children should be treasured.

The organisation unveiled a new library at the children’s village in Sir Lowry’s Pass Village on Friday. The village, which opened its doors in 2009, provides foster care and a safe living space for 25 children aged six to 12 who have been removed from their homes.

Unashamedly Ethical and Hope & Light partnered to create a space where children can unwind.

International artist and Somerset West resident Charlie Vettori donated her time to brightening a wall with age-appropriate artwork, while local construction company The Power Group refurbished three bookcases.

The project brings to life Mandela’s words “Our children are our greatest treasure. They are our future.”