The school submitted over 30 blankets to the 67 Blankets for Mandela Day movement. The programme seeks to donate 21 000 blankets by 21 April this year. These blankets will be spread out on the Union Building lawns, at the feet of the Nelson Mandela statue, where South Africa’s 21 years of democracy will be commemorated.
On 9 April, the school held a special assembly, led by the school’s movement’s founder, Carolyn Steyn. Pupils at the school were joined by some of the mothers and grandparents who took it upon themselves to knit and crochet their squares and blankets.
Steyn thanked the school’s head of pastoral care and outreach, Cheryl Coetzee, and principal, Matthew Davies, for taking on the challenge with such great enthusiasm. “There’s often plenty of red tape to cut through when dealing with schools, big institutions and even prisons. It’s difficult to get through without someone in a position of leadership who’s willing to do what it takes to get things going,” said Steyn.
Musician, Connell Cruise, also made an appearance at the assembly, where he pledged to perform at the big 67 Blankets celebration.
Coetzee promised to continue to knit blankets even after the 15 April cut-off date, and hopes to have more blankets to contribute to Madiba’s memory in time for Mandela Day on 18 July. “We hope to keep more people warm this winter, and to continue to extend a helping hand where possible,” Steyn said.
What are you doing for Mandela Day? Share your plans with Fourways Review in the comments below.
