To close off Youth Month and National Blood Donation Month in June, Shincheonji Volunteers, in partnership with the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) and City View Shopping Centre recently hosted a meaningful blood drive that transformed remembrance into action.
Held at City View Shopping Centre in Durban, the event honoured the young heroes who sacrificed their lives for South Africa’s freedom while calling on today’s youth to save lives through blood donation. The message was simple yet powerful: “As the youth of yesterday gave their blood for our freedom, let the youth of today give theirs to save lives.”
Bongiwe Groupè, Head of Shincheonji Volunteers in Durban, reflected on the importance of the day:
“The youth of the struggle gave their lives so that we could live. What better way to honour them than by giving life ourselves? We give because we have received.”
The atmosphere was filled with music, community spirit, and moments of courage as first-time donors stepped up. One of them, Thandolwethu Khoza, shared his experience:
“I used to be afraid because of myths I’d heard, but today I feel so strong. This was such a joyful experience. I’ve learnt that donating blood is a gift—not just to others, but to yourself too.”
City View Shopping Centre Manager, Tina Naidoo, expressed her pride in supporting the initiative: “ We’re honoured to partner with Shincheonji Volunteers and SANBS in this life-saving mission. Events like this are exactly what our community needs—hope in action.”
With June being National Blood Donor Month, SANBS representatives praised the timing and significance of the drive.
“For over two years, this partnership has continued to grow. These blood drives don’t just fill blood banks—they fill hearts with compassion and educate the public on the importance of giving,” they said.
As Youth Month came to a close, the message of the day was clear: freedom was won through sacrifice, and it is sustained through service. By honouring the past, today’s youth are helping shape a more caring and compassionate future—one drop at a time.
