‘It’s in our hands’: The acts and origins of Mandela Day
This Mandela Day, we’re rebuilding hope and spreading kindness. Here’s where this day stems from and how you can play your part.
“It’s in your hands.”
That’s the message Nelson Mandela left with the world.
This is a powerful reminder that we all have the ability to change the world, even if only for one person, one day at a time.
Where did Mandela Day begin?
Mandela Day was officially declared by the United Nations in 2009 to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, who spent 67 years fighting for social justice.
Every 18 July (Madiba’s birthday), people across the globe are encouraged to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to doing something good for others.
Why 67? Well, that’s how many years Mandela selflessly served humanity.
It’s more than just a day on the calendar. It’s a global call to action.
It’s a day to be of service, to uplift, to restore dignity, and to build a better world.
This year, we’re picking up tools and picking up hope.
At East Coast Radio, Mandela Day isn’t just about ticking a box. It’s about showing up for our community in a meaningful way.
That’s why we’ve committed to rebuilding a home for Ms Thembele Shangase in Inchanga.
Ms Shangase is a resilient woman whose house was severely damaged during the devastating 2022 Durban floods.
For Ms Shangase, this isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s safety. It’s shelter. It’s dignity.
Most importantly though, it’s home.
How can YOU make a difference this Mandela Day?
You don’t need a construction crew to change someone’s life.
Here are simple but powerful acts you can do this Mandela Day:
- Donate books to under-resourced schools or libraries.
- Start a mini food drive in your neighbourhood.
- Give blood. One pint can save up to three lives.
- Clean up a local park or beach.
- Buy a warm meal for someone living on the street.
- Sponsor school supplies for a child in need.
- Call an elderly relative. Sometimes 67 minutes of conversation is all it takes to make someone feel seen.
This Mandela Day, we challenge you to be the reason someone believes in humanity again.
Whether it’s laying a brick, lending a hand, or simply showing kindness; every action matters.
Big or small. Loud or quiet.
Madiba believed in a world where each of us plays a role, and right now, that world is still possible.
However, it’s in our hands.
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