Mandela Day takes place on 18 July and is the perfect opportunity to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, as well as promote his values of reconciliation, equality, and social justice.
Here are some ideas for how you can spend your 67 minutes.
1. Walk a puppy and more at TEARS
Experience the joy of giving back and join TEARS this Mandela Day on the 15th, 16th and 18th July. The kennels and cattery have many projects on the go that require your helping hand. Let your compassion pave the way to a brighter future for animals in need.
Register: tears.org.za/mandeladay
2. Give back at Rare Diseases South Africa
The Rare Diseases South Africa (RDSA) has two parts to its Mandela Day initiative this year. Its running a 67-minute service drive, as well as a winter drive for its Rare Bear Project, an outreach for the ladies of KyaSands.
RSVP: events@rarediseases.co.za
3. Laugh for 67 minutes and change a child’s life
Join Cotlands for the fourth annual ‘Laugh for 67 Minutes’ charity comedy show. The event takes place on Saturday, 22 July and supports children lacking early learning opportunities. Partnering with Hard Rock Cafe and Pickled Ginger, it promises to be an unforgettable evening of laughter.
When: Saturday 22 July
Where: Hard Rock Cafe Johannesburg, Nelson Mandela Square, 8 Maude Street, Sandton
RSVP: Tickets available on cotlands.org or Quicket
4. Paint the day away at Mdzananda Animal Clinic
You’re invited to spend your 67 minutes painting Mdzananda’s Satellite Sterilisation Clinic, which is in need of a facelift and new coat of paint. Help beautify this space with bright orange paint – the colour which represents Mdzananda’s creativity and passion for animals.
When: Saturday 15 July, 9am to 1pm, and Tuesday 18 July, 9am to 3pm.
Where: Corner Sizane and Sitofile Streets, G Section Khayelitsha
RSVP: info@mdzananda.co.za on/before 13 July
5. Make soup at the Organ Donor Foundation
The Organ Donor Foundation is teaming up with similar NPOs to show its commitment to making a difference in saving lives. Partnering with chef Jenny Morris, you’ll help prep soup – just bring your potato peeler, chopping board and a bag of veggies. All proceeds will be distributed to the Salesian Institute to feed hungry tummies.
Where: Salesian Institute Youth Projects, No 2, Somerset Road, Green Point
When: 18th July 10am and 2pm
6. Donate to Operation Smile
This Mandela Day, instead of giving 67 minutes of your time, please donate R1, R10 or R100 per minute (R67, R670 or R6700) towards new smiles for children born with cleft conditions. You’ll help provide medical supplies to enable its volunteer doctors and nurses perform free, life-changing surgery.
