This year's annual Mandela Day celebration of the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela takes on profound significance with the theme: “It’s in your hands.” This powerful call to action resonates deeply, urging individuals, communities, and organizations to reflect on Nelson Mandela’s values and principles and strive for positive change. The urgency of this theme is underscored by the challenges we face — growing inequities, increasing poverty rates, the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and global conflicts. It is more crucial than ever to heed Mandela’s legacy and work tirelessly to combat poverty and injustice. Not sure how to make a real difference this July 18? Don’t worry, we have a few ideas for you.
FIVE WAYS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE ON MANDELA DAY
1. Participate in the Mandela Day Walk & Run
Get involved in the highly anticipated 2024 Mandela Day Walk and Run event, scheduled for Saturday, July 20, at DP World Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. This annual event celebrates community service and positive change and features a variety of activities for all ages. It is also a significant opportunity to contribute to the collective effort to make a lasting difference.
Your participation, regardless of the distance you choose, will be a step towards a more equitable society. If you’re based in South Africa and can take part, the 5km route will traverse parts of Illovo and Melrose North. In comparison, the 10km and 21km routes will pass through sections of Houghton Estate, featuring iconic sites such as the home base of the Nelson Mandela Foundation and Nelson Mandela’s residence. Not in South Africa? Not a problem! There’s a virtual race, too, for those from out of town or those who cannot make it on the day. Click here to enter.
2. Engage in Community Service Projects
Mandela Day is an excellent opportunity to get involved in community service projects. These include organizing clean-up drives, helping at local shelters, or participating in tree-planting initiatives. The goal is to contribute meaningfully to your community, reflecting Mandela’s commitment to service and upliftment. In South Africa, organizations like Gift of the Givers offer volunteer programs, while Feeding America and City Meals provide opportunities to volunteer at food banks in the US. You can also ask neighbors or community members around you where you can find a suitable place to donate your time and resources for the greater good.
3. Host Educational Workshops
Education was a cornerstone of Mandela’s vision for a better future. Hosting human rights, social justice, and environmental sustainability workshops can empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to make a difference. Consider partnering with local schools, libraries, or community centers to reach a broader audience — or see if they are hosting their own workshops or community meetings that you can contribute to. Organizations like Oxfam offer resources to support educational initiatives.
4. Perform Random Acts of Kindness
Simple acts of kindness can have a significant impact on those around you. Consider paying for someone’s meal, writing a thank-you note, donating clothes, or helping a neighbor with their groceries. These small gestures can brighten someone’s day and create a ripple effect of positivity within your community. Kindness is a universal language everyone can understand and appreciate, and these acts can build stronger, more compassionate communities.
5. Start a Community Garden
Starting a community garden is an excellent way to promote sustainability and provide fresh, healthy food to your neighborhood. Community gardens can help address food insecurity, foster community spirit, and educate people about sustainable practices. Collaborate with local organizations and residents to find a suitable location and gather resources. The garden can grow various fruits, vegetables, and herbs, benefiting everyone involved — especially if this vegetation is indigenous to your community. Organizations like Act4Food and Sky High Farm provide resources and support for growing food and promoting sustainability. A community garden supplies nutritious food and serves as a gathering place to strengthen community bonds and encourage environmental stewardship.
Beyond Mandela Day
While Mandela Day is a focal point for these activities, the day’s spirit must be carried throughout the year. Inequity continues to grow, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have exposed and exacerbated existing disparities. Climate change, war and conflict, and increasing food insecurity rates have led to widespread displacement and higher levels of poverty. Our collective efforts, when combined, have the power to combat these challenges and work towards a more just and equitable society. This ongoing commitment is a responsibility we all share. Mandela’s legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, compassion, and unwavering dedication to justice.
His life’s work reminds us that change is possible when we come together and take action. The theme “It’s in your hands” reminds us that each of us has the power to make a difference, no matter how small our actions may seem. By engaging in these activities and maintaining momentum throughout the year, we can ensure that Mandela’s vision lives on and continues to inspire future generations.
Your participation, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in your community and beyond. By taking action, we can create a world where Mandela’s dream of equality, justice, and dignity for all becomes a reality. Remember, it’s in your hands to make a difference.
If you want to push a long-term agenda for change, you can start by taking action with Global Citizen. You could also get tickets to the Global Citizen Festival in NYC on September 28, as we call on global leaders to Defeat Poverty, Defend the Planet, and Demand Equity. So, what are you waiting for?