Mandela Day which is celebrated annually on Nelson Mandela’s birthday, 18 July, will once again give people an opportunity to make a positive impact in their communities by making a difference in the lives of those in need.
This year, under the theme of “It is in your hands”, residents, organisations and businesses will come together to contribute towards turning the tide against food insecurity and climate change in honour of Mandela’s legacy. One such organisation that is aiming to make a difference within their community is the Phoenix Child Welfare, who will be commemorating the day by treating 67 orphaned and vulnerable children from Phoenix, Mount Moriah, Amaoti and Bhambayi areas to lunch and goodie bags.
In keeping with the theme, the children will also receive seeds and trees, in an effort to encourage a greener environment and to help them learn about sustainable food gardens. Speaking to the Phoenix Tabloid, the Director of Phoenix Child Welfare, Aroona Chetty said: “The children will be addressed by a youth member of Phoenix Child Welfare on the good values of Nelson Mandela and what he truly stood for. The children will be taken on a tour around the hydroponic garden and open field with various vegetables to educate them on the importance growing their own food.”
The programme will culminate with a visit around the Children’s Centre which is currently being built and will reach completion soon. “The Children’s Centre is one of the first in South Africa that will serve as a multi-purpose resource centre with a hall for edutainment, a toy library, charity shop, a play therapy room and a holistic wellness centre. Mandela Day has become a global action that celebrates the idea that each person has the power to change the world and the ability to make an impact. With that being said, a humble appeal is being made to good samaritans and corporates to contribute towards our Children’s Centre and charity shop which will ensure sustainability of the centre,” said Chetty.
Phoenix Child Welfare is also reaching out for assistance from individuals with specialised skills such as doctors, lawyers, teachers, nurses and care givers to support the children at the Phoenix Children’s Home which caters for abused, abandoned, destitute and orphaned children.
“We encourage you to discuss your availability, any specific skills or qualifications you possess, and the time commitment you can offer. Phoenix Child Welfare will guide you through the process, including any necessary background checks or training requirements. Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of these children. A wish-list of the items needed to help sustain our children at the home can also be obtained at our offices,” added Chetty.
Mandela Day was initiated in 2009 by the Nelson Mandela Foundation and various other organisations as a global call to action. The campaign aims to inspire individuals across the world to dedicate 67 minutes of their time on Mandela Day to engage in acts of service no matter how small.
The significance of the number 67 is derived from Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of public service, which encompassed his activism, political leadership, and efforts towards social justice and equality. To make a difference this Mandela day with a small act of kindness, contact Aroona Chetty on 031 500 3671 for more information on how you can contribute towards any of PCW’s initiatives.
