On Friday, July 18, the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) commemorated Mandela Day by dedicating their time and resources to the Zanele Mtshali Disability Home in Khutsong Township. The initiative was part of NUM’s annual Mandela Day outreach, which is supported by the Mineworkers Investment Trust (MIT).

Each year, the NUM identifies different regions and institutions in need, offering support to schools, organisations, and care homes as part of their commitment to community upliftment. This year, the team rolled up their sleeves to clean, paint, do laundry, and cook a warm meal for the children and workers at the facility.

“The day is about making a difference, so we chose Zanele Mtshali Disability Home to show that we care,” said NUM General Secretary Mr Mpho Phakadi. “We were glad to support the staff and contribute to their daily work.”

Several stakeholders joined the cause, including Family Mineworkers Development Agency, Elijah Bahai Training Centre, MIT, and Research Entity, all uniting under the theme of social responsibility. Their collective goal is to help communities thrive through access to finance, resources, and ongoing support.

“Our message is clear—we want to change lives in local communities and continue helping wherever we can,” Phakadi added. “We are especially proud to contribute to a community that forms part of the mining sector.”

The celebration continued into the next day with a follow-up event held at the home, where stakeholders delivered speeches reinforcing the message of hope and inclusion. Among the supporters was Keabetsoe Nche, a semi-finalist in the Miss Face of Gauteng pageant, who joined the initiative as part of her social responsibility campaign.

The NUM and its partners hope to inspire more organisations to take action that brings meaningful change in the lives of vulnerable communities.