July 18 is Mandela Day celebrated every year on Nelson Mandela’s birthday. Mandela Day is a global call to action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make an impact. The Mandela Day campaign message is: “Nelson Mandela has fought for social justice for 67 years. We’re asking you to start with 67 minutes.” People around the world are encouraged to volunteer 67 minutes of their time volunteering or helping others.
Richard House Children’s Hospice welcomed volunteers from the South African High Commission as part of the celebrations for Mandela Day on Friday 18 July this year.
The staff showed their community spirit, volunteering in the hospice gardens during one of the hottest days of the year at the Beckton-based hospice. It was the fourth year in succession that the High Commission had spent the special day at the hospice in East London.
The trip was arranged to coincide with what would have been the 96th birthday of former president Nelson Mandela, known as Madiba throughout South Africa, on a day celebrated worldwide as Mandela Day, and the first since his death last year.
Sisanda Lisa, First Secretary at the High Commission, said: “We are here volunteering at Richard House to celebrate the birthday of our icon Mandela, and to live his legacy of serving others. Richard House is a great cause for people to support on this day and every day.”
Mandela Day has been celebrated since 2010 and aims to inspire individuals to take action to help change the world for the better and in doing so build a global movement for good.
Rachel Power, Director of Human Resources and Engagement at Richard House said “It was brilliant to see such wonderful community spirit on a special day for South Africans.”
To find out more information about Richard House please visit www.richardhouse.org.uk
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