BMG Shipping marked Mandela Day (July 18) by donating R20 000 to the Epilepsy SA Gauteng Branch in Springs while spending the day with residents in an effort to build what the company hopes will become a long-term partnership with the organisation.

The team shared lunch with residents, took part in a friendly soccer match and donated soccer balls, volleyballs and art supplies to encourage recreation, creativity and social interaction at the centre.

BMG Shipping’s Buyile Mdladla told the Springs Advertiser that the initiative was about far more than making a one-off donation.

“As a company, we are committed to building relationships that extend beyond a single day of giving. We see this Mandela Day as the beginning of what we hope will be a long and meaningful partnership with Epilepsy South Africa,” said Mdladla.

He explained that the cause is deeply personal to the company because its CEO, Connie Mdladla, has lived with epilepsy since her teenage years.

He shared that supporting Epilepsy South Africa is, therefore, not simply a corporate initiative but a deeply personal commitment rooted in empathy, understanding and a genuine desire to make a positive difference.

Along with the R20 000 donation presented to centre director Aileen Langley, the company hoped the day’s activities would leave beneficiaries with lasting memories.

“We want every beneficiary to know that they are seen, valued and remembered. If our visit brought smiles, laughter and encouragement, then we have achieved something truly meaningful.

“Sometimes the greatest gift we can offer is our time, our presence and our willingness to connect with others,” said Mdladla.

He believes businesses have a responsibility to support the communities in which they operate. Mdladla encouraged other companies to view Mandela Day as more than an annual event.

He added that community involvement forms part of the company’s values throughout the year and is guided by the philosophy of Ubuntu.

Reflecting on the visit, Mdladla said the gratitude shown by the residents left a lasting impression on the team.

“Their smiles, warm conversations and heartfelt words of thanks touched every member of our team.

“What moved us most was how many of the residents thanked us simply for taking the time to visit. It was a powerful reminder that sometimes the greatest act of kindness is showing up and making people feel seen.”

He also called on more people to support organisations that care for people living with epilepsy.

“The staff at the centre are truly extraordinary. You do not have to make a large donation to make a difference.

“Whether it is giving your time, sharing your skills, making a financial contribution or simply raising awareness, every act of kindness helps. Together, we can bring hope, dignity and brighter days to those who need it most.”

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Epilepsy SA’s director Aileen Langley thanked BMG Shipping for its generosity and for spending meaningful time with the residents.

“BMG Shipping was fantastic. They gave us a substantial donation and a wonderful lunch, but most of all they interacted with the residents and made them feel very special,” said Langley.

She encouraged other businesses to support organisations that care for vulnerable members of the community.

“Every donation counts. Help us look after our vulnerable brothers and sisters in our own community. They deserve it,” she concluded.