Spreading the power of Madiba Magic
July 2011,
Mention Nelson Mandela’s name to anyone, anywhere in the world and you’ll see how blessed we are. Tata Madiba, as he’s fondly known, has been more than a president and revolutionary – he’s been the nation’s father. His selflessness is no doubt inspirational to the universe.
Mandela Day was started to honour that same selflessness that Nelson Mandela has shown.
“The overarching objective of Mandela Day is to inspire individuals to take action to help change the world for the better, and in doing so build a global movement for good. Ultimately it seeks to empower communities everywhere. “Take
Action; Inspire Change; Make Every Day a Mandela Day.” – Nelson Mandela Foundation.
Dedicating 67 minutes of your time to do good for others, once a year is a small order compared to the amount of great work our former president has done for millions of South Africans and the many hearts he has touched worldwide.
Not one to miss out on an opportunity to flaunt our giving spirit – we teamed up with the Member of the Mayoral office of Johannesburg, MMC Ruby Mathang and Orlando Ward councillors to contribute to this humbling initiative.
The first of many 67 minutes – Orlando Police Station
The day started off with a surprise visit to the Station Commander of Orlando Police station. Led by MMC Ruby Mathang , the Councillors Queen Ribi, Bongani Dlamini, Sechaba Khumalo and Primedia Outdoor team presented Commander Zangwa with a blanket . This, to show our appreciation for his great leadership that has ultimately lessened the crime rate in the area. Commissioner Zangwa has donated the blanket to the station’s trauma unit. Citing that the blanket could not only benefit him, but also the people he serves.
Thlokomelo Home Based Care Centre
The group then went to Thlokomelo HBC to donate more blankets. The world can become a lonely and cold place for those infected and affected by HIV and Aids – the stigma attached to this virus often robs people of much needed love and support. That’s why a blanket donation is always met with joy – blankets have a positive symbolism, especially in African culture.
Thlokomelo’s volunteering care givers visit people in their homes, assisting with their medications and moral support. Their database is growing fast and they have a huge need of various supplies to sustain their good work.
Footprints Hospice
This organisation truly reflects the spirit of Madiba. Footprints Hospice was started by Soweto professionals who saw the dire need for a place of care for the HIV infected and chronically ill. After a long struggle and resistance from some people, Footprints, with the help of MMC Ruby Mathang, finally received the go ahead to operate as a hospice and training centre for care givers and nurses. The well maintained centre has grown from strength to strength, now supported by the Orlando YMCA and numerous corporates nationally and abroad. Twenty beds and blankets were donated to this organisation.
Celebrating the coming of age
The most heart warming 67 minutes spent goes to the two elderly women who share their birthdays with Tata. Mrs Nxumalo and Mrs Thusi both enjoyed a party hosted by the councillor of the Tladi ward in Soweto. The team donated a blanket each and wished the ladies many more years. The two gogos who turned 105 and 93 years respectively looked healthy and gracious wrapped in their blankets.
A special thank you goes to:
MMC Ruby Mathang
Councillor Sechaba Khumalo
Councillor Bongani Dlamini
Councillor Queen Riba
Paulinah Thlokomelo – Thlokomelo Home Based Care Centre
Mary Dinaai – Footprints Hospice
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