Isizinda Sempile Organisation (ISO) celebrated and commemorated its 67 Minutes for Nelson Mandela Day at the Dlamini Methodist Church in Soweto on July 18. The event was designed to empower young men in the community.

CEO of ISO, Bongani Makhaya, told Urban News the day was all about giving back in the best way they know how by empowering young men and boys in the community through various engagements focusing on GBV, HIV prevention and personal development.

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“Today’s event is made possible through the support of Woolworths Cresta. We were selected as a beneficiary, and we thought, why not do for our young men what is so often done for young girls and women by providing them with care packages containing everyday essentials?

“I often say the only item a young man is unlikely to use in a care package is sanitary pads. Even then, those can be passed on to someone else in the family,” said Makhaya.

Chairperson of ISO, Hebert Monadira, shared the importance of looking after and nurturing boys in the community, encouraging parents to pay attention to their sons and notice any changes in their behaviour.

“We are here to represent Woolworths as a whole. We know our customer base is in our local communities.

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“When this idea came about, I did not hesitate because I knew it was for a greater cause and would benefit the community. It is heartwarming to witness a moment like this where, for a change, our boys are being cared for and recognised,” said Phindile Ludidi, manager of Woolworths Cresta.

The young men received bags filled with essential care items and were also treated to lunch.