It is almost time for Belly2Brain founder Dominique Tibbles to lock herself in a cage for 67 hours again – all in an effort to improve the lives of those in need across the West Rand.

This will be the fourth consecutive year that Dominique takes on the challenge as part of Belly2Brain’s annual Mandela Day sandwich drive. She will enter the cage on July 15 and remain there until July 18 to raise R110 000 to make 20 000 peanut butter and jam sandwiches.

According to Dominique, the fundraising campaign aims to raise both funds and awareness for the initiative.

Throughout the 67-hour lock-up at Cradlestone Mall’s Entrance 5, residents can take part in several activities, including:

• A make-up tutorial on the evening of July 16
• A Canvas and Cabernet paint evening on July 17
• The community sandwich-making event on July 18

Those who would like more information about the events or wish to contribute to the cause can contact Dominique on 074 183 5929.

“I encourage everyone, including families, to come and help prepare the sandwiches between 08:00 and 15:00. Bring your children along so they can experience what it means to give back to the community. All you need is a wooden spoon,” she said.

“Get out of your jams and come spread some jam. It can be an amazing family outing,” she added.

The sandwiches will be distributed to numerous local NPOs and feeding schemes.

Dominique admitted that locking herself in the cage is a significant challenge.

“Every year I ask myself, ‘Why do I do this?’ But when I get out of the cage, I have my answer – to give back and make an impact on people’s lives,” she said.

“The days until the lock-up are getting fewer, and the stress is increasing, but despite being sore and tired afterwards, the feeling of seeing it all come together successfully is incredible. It is not an egotistical feeling, but rather disbelief that so many people can come together to make a difference,” she concluded.