Madiba is one of South Africa’s greatest heroes. Not only is he loved and adored by South Africans, he is also admired internationally.

So much so, that his birthday on July 18 is celebrated as Mandela Day across the world.
What is Mandela Day?
The message is simple. Mandela gave 67 years of his life fighting for the rights of humanity. It seems only fitting that we give 67 minutes of our time on this day, whether it’s supporting a chosen charity or serving in the local community.

It is a day where Nelson Mandela’s life work is celebrated annually through an act of kindness. People are asked to spend 67 minutes of the day helping someone else.

What can I do with my 67 minutes you might be asking? There are no set rules. Anything that will impact someone else’s life positively. If anyone would like to help with painting, fixing and restoring on Mandela Day, there is a project begging for your help.

The old Lutheran Mission Press in Moorleigh has become very neglected and plans are to make it into a self-sufficient community project. It would include a feeding scheme, enabling the women to become independent with vegetable gardens, sewing, simple baking classes and a crèche.

Anyone who can assist in any way with their time is welcome to bring a ladder along to assist with painting and installing window panes. Doors, security gates, ceiling boards and window panes are still needed.

The Estcourt Lions Club would love to have you help at a work party on Saturday, July 18 from 10am to about 3pm at the Moorleigh Mission Press building. If you are unable to be there but would still like to contribute R67 or more to get this project off the ground, contact Jenny Wreford on 072 053 7915 or Cecil Friend from the Estcourt Lions Club on 071 020 5409.