Three ways to support Mandela Day

Mandela Day presents an opportunity for us all to take time out of our busy schedules to focus on how we can help build up the communities around us. This year will mark the 10th anniversary of Madiba’s passing which makes it an even more important year to honour his memory by taking the time to help others.

According to the Mandela Organisation, “the call to action for Nelson Mandela International Day 2023 is ‘Climate, Food & Solidarity’ and reflects some of the most urgent challenges facing people worldwide. This year we will focus on dismantling poverty and inequality by taking action against climate change and creating resilient food environments.”

For those who are unsure of how best to celebrate the day, RE/MAX of Southern Africa shared a few ideas on how to give back to your local communities with the above call to action in mind.

• Help feed the hungry

Find out if there is a local feeding scheme that you could support – either by giving up some of your time by volunteering, giving financial contributions, or dropping off a donation of food supplies.

“To help provide for those who are without food and shelter, we invite the public to visit their nearest RE/MAX office to drop off donations of canned food, warm clothes, and blankets for our annual Coats & Can collection drive. These donations will be dropped off at various shelters across the country at the end of July,” explained regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa Adrian Goslett.

• Add an eco-friendly upgrade to your home

To assist in creating a greener tomorrow, homeowners could use the day as a reminder to make some eco-friendly changes to their lifestyles and homes. Create your own compost heap and vegetable garden to reduce waste and create greater self-sufficiency. Add insulation to the home to reduce reliance on heating and cooling solutions. Change to energy-saving lightbulbs and water-efficient faucets. Do whatever you can to reduce your carbon footprint.

• Support NPOs in creating sustainable food sources

Do some research and find local organisations to support that are already working towards creating sustainable food sources for impoverished communities. One such organisation is Save Our Schools (SOSNPO) which is working on implementing the development of vital water infrastructure and water-conscious vegetable gardens in local communities. Reach out to them to find out how best to support their efforts.

“Whatever it is that you decide to do, the important thing is that you end up doing something rather than nothing. No matter how small the deed, each small action can collectively add up towards making a notable change in our country,” Adrian concluded.