Mandela Day honoured through community service

Every year on July 18, the country marks Mandela Day - a global call to action that honours the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first democratically elected president, anti-apartheid leader, and philanthropist.

It is a day that serves as a reminder of Mandela’s unwavering commitment to equality, justice, and reconciliation, presenting an opportunity for individuals, communities, and organisations worldwide to contribute to positive change and make a difference in the lives of others.

Mandela Day was officially launched by the Nelson Mandela Foundation (NMF) back in 2009, on the late Mandela’s birthday, as a way to inspire people to take action and create a positive social impact.

In November 2009, the United Nations subsequently recognised the significance of Mandela Day and declared July 18 as International Nelson Mandela Day.

Sentinel News visited Hout Bay to find out how local residents and organisations were marking Mandela Day this year, and what the day meant to them.

Patience Gertse from Hangberg is very active in the community, always lending a helping hand at various community initiatives across Hout Bay.

"Nelson Mandela’s legacy is one of forgiveness, unwavering dedication to justice, and an enduring commitment to democracy. His life reminds us that true leadership is defined not by power, but by courage, compassion, and the ability to inspire hope in others," she said.

Ms Gertse said that in times of "uncertainty and hardship", the lessons of the late former President would continue to resonate, encouraging locals to "rise above fear, face challenges head-on, and work towards a better future for all, especially for the generations to come".

In honor of Mandela Day this year, Ms Gertse is planning to donate clothing and food to a nearby squatter camp, spending her 67 minutes with the community there.

"It is a small gesture, but one rooted in the spirit of ubuntu that our shared humanity binds us together. Let us all take a moment to reflect on Mandela’s enduring message and contribute in whatever way we can to build a more just and compassionate world," Ms Gertse said.

Mandela, affectionately known as Madiba, was intensely involved in anti-apartheid activities and served 27 years in prison for the cause. 

On his 90th birthday, in London’s Hyde Park, Mandela made the statement: “It is time for new hands to lift the burdens. It is your hands now.”

This moment and call-to-action started a worldwide movement for social change. 

According to the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Mandela has been making an imprint on the world for 67 years, beginning in 1942 when he first started to campaign for the human rights of every South African. His life has been an inspiration to the world.

By dedicating 67 minutes of their time - one for every year of Mandela's service - people can give back to the world around them and make a contribution to global humanitarianism. 

Ward councillor Roberto Quintas described Mandela Day as a Remembrance Day that "makes all of us consider the promise of building a new, unified and caring society in South Africa".

"The promised 'Rainbow Nation', where those who can, assist those who are in need or add their resources, energies,, or other contributions toward community building projects," Mr Quintas said.

There are many initiatives undertaken by businesses, NGOs and private individuals and Mr Quintas encouraged those who are able to, to look out for one of these and get involved or start something themselves.

"Whether it be visiting a retirement home and providing small gifts or acts of love, or assisting in painting an ECD or rolling out toys or blankets for community projects, the possibilities are endless and no act is seen as to small or too big,” Mr Quintas said.

A local Hout Bay initiative called Re.Bag.Re.Use uses recycled materials to create new bags and clothing, creating employment and opportunities for Hout Bay locals.

Founder of the initiative, Regine le Roux, said: "At Re.Bag.Re.Use, every day is a stitch toward a more sustainable and compassionate South Africa."

Ms le Roux added that Mandela Day was a "powerful reminder that each of us can make a difference, not through grand gestures, but through consistent, conscious action."

"We believe dignity is woven into opportunity. That is why, for our 67 minutes (and beyond), we continue to crochet with purpose. We transform plastic waste into meaningful products while creating opportunities for women in our community," she said.

This year, Ms le Roux encouraged the public to support them by donating clean, empty bread bags, placing an order for a handcrafted product, or simply spreading the word.

"Your support helps us honour Madiba’s legacy through environmental responsibility, creativity, and community upliftment," Ms le Roux said.

A percentage of what is made gets donated to the Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) and the SPCA, helping to spread the love even further.

"Together, let us make every minute count," Ms le Roux said.

At Llandudno Primary School, they believe "education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world," as Nelson Mandela once said.

Principal Alexander Molteno said :"This truth resonates deeply, especially in South Africa, where the weight of history and inequality still shapes so much of our society."

With the 2025 Mandela Day theme - 'It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity' -  Mr Molteno said they were reminded that the responsibility to act never leaves them.

"It lies in our daily choices and in how we raise and educate our children," he said.

He went on to explain that from a schooling perspective, Mandela Day was not a single date on the calendar for them, but rather a mindset that was adopted by the school - "one that calls us to embed the values of service, justice, and dignity" into every part of the school culture.

"As educators, we are uniquely positioned to mobilise the next generation to build a fairer, more compassionate South Africa. We view every day as Mandela Day - an opportunity to inspire learners to be active, empathetic citizens," Mr Molteno said.

At Llandudno Primary School, community outreach is part of the school’s focus throughout the year. For Mandela Day this year, pupils are collecting and donating books, toys, sanitary items, shoes, pet food, and Santa Shoeboxes to support children and families in need. They will also take turns by grade to prepare sandwiches each week for pupils at primary schools in need.