Volunteers from the Nelson Mandela Foundation hard at work packing meals for children in need
The spirit of Madiba was alive in the thousands of volunteers at the Sandton Convention Centre this Mandela Day, who worked tirelessly to help provide over 300 000 meals for children in need.
The initiative was headed by aid organisation Stop Hunger Now, and attracted a strong attendance throughout the day. For 67 minutes at a time, teams of about 20 people from 70 companies packaged nutritious meals into boxes for distribution across the country.
The CEO of Stop Hunger Now, Barry Mey, was hugely encouraged by the turnout and thanked everyone for the support.
“Madiba asked us to serve 67 minutes of our time for others. I think what he was trying to say was, if you’re too busy, then at least set aside 67 minutes per year. Otherwise, it should be a mindset you carry on a daily basis.
CEO of Stop Hunger Now, Barry Mey
“I am so humbled by the response from South African corporates and all the volunteers taking part today. We’re well on our way to feeding nearly 2 000 children three meals a week for a year,” said Mey, while the busy throng of volunteers tended to their production lines around him.
Mrs Graça Machel joined the event, rolling up her sleeves to help package food parcels.
“We know that this is so much more than just providing food; it’s the impact behind it,” she said. “A child cannot perform well in school on an empty stomach.
“I want to give each of you a big hug; thank you for taking part. Wherever Madiba is on his new journey, you are making him smile.”
Mrs Graça Machel helps Nelson Mandela Foundation volunteers pack food at the Sandton Convention Centre
Smiling volunteers make the most of their 67 minutes for Mandela Day
Young Tshego Hatang has fun while helping out
Building boxes to house the nutritious food donations
Click here to view more pictures from the day.