“No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than it’s opposite,” Nelson Mandela once said.
It is that time again when the nation prepares to work hand in hand to project the need for humanity in South Africa.
Although former president Nelson Mandela is said to be in a stable but critical condition at the MediClinic Heart Hospital in Pretoria, the nation will be giving life to a long chain of verbs to celebrate the fourth annual National Mandela Day on 18 July.
The 67minutes of goodwill is in honour of the 67 years spent by the revolutionist, along with many other freedom fighters who were also willing to give up their lives for the country to be liberated.
In light of this heartfelt initiative, the Record learnt about a few charities and other oganisations that will be hosting honorary events towards Mandela Day.
SANBS Fairlands Donor Centre will be putting in extra hours at work; doors will close at 7pm in the evening, according to a receptionist.
Vicky Nimrod from The Fatherhood Foundation of South Africa was excited to tell the Record about the organisation’s plans for the big day.
“We will be very busy on Mandela Day.”
He also added that they will be donating vegetables and implementing food gardens for the needy, they also will be visiting an old age home in Westbury later on. Former 7de Laan actor Zane Meas who is also the founder of the organisation will be there as he will give motivational talks to encourage people to do good every day.
“On Thursday 18 July Dorcas Aid Staff will do its outreach in the Marie Louise informal settlement”, said Nerine Niemand. She adds that addressing their needs cannot be done through simply food handouts, but rather by assessing their needs and gaining their trust. This will create movement for the cause.
The assistance of Dumpsite Ministries will be doing the organisation a lot of justice on the day as food parcels containing items such as oil, sugar, rice, tinned vegetables and more will be handed over. They will help expand their permaculture garden, a Dorcas Aid initiative, on site.
If one person can dedicate their time to help another, then you can do the same. Take part and take initiative. After all, it only will take 67 minutes.
For more information, visit the Mandela Day website at www.mandeladay.com.
