Celebrating Mandela Day

#ItsInOurHands

By Fiona Wakelin

On 18 July each year we celebrate Madiba’s birthday by embracing the spirit of service, unity, and social justice that he championed. The day is marked by a national call to action: “67 minutes for Mandela” - symbolising the 67 years he spent fighting for human rights and social justice. And because he was a global icon, these 67 minutes are not just celebrated throughout South Africa, they are a global clarion call, which, some would argue, is needed now more than ever. This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July will be celebrated under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.”

5 Tips On How To Spend The 1 Hour And 7 Minutes

1. Volunteer For Community Service

• Clean schools, clinics, or public spaces

• Paint or renovate community centres or orphanages

• Plant trees or create community gardens

• Assist at shelters or food kitchens

2. Charity And Donations

3. Acts Of Kindness

• Collect and donate food, clothes, books, or funds to underprivileged communities

• Partner with NGOs in your community

• Help elderly neighbours, distribute sandwiches, offer free services

4. Cultural Celebrations

• Attend concerts, poetry, art installations, and other creative expressions of Mandela’s legacy

5. Join Group Activities

• Participate in communal walks and fun runs