On 18 July 2024, International Mandela Day, Beyond Zero teams from East London, Johannesburg, and Polokwane dedicated their time to community service, embodying the spirit of Nelson Mandela’s legacy. Spending 67 minutes at various schools and CSO donating preloved clothes, hygiene packs, school bags, assisting with cleaning campaigns and connecting with and beneficiaries from various organisations to fostering community relations and spreading goodwill.

The Beyond Zero East London Head Office made an impact during their visit to Vukuhambe Special School in Mdantsane. The team donated hygiene packs to all the learners, demonstrating their commitment to the students’ well-being. The event was graced by Nokuthula from the disability sector, representing Rise & Shine Disability Magazine, who delivered an inspiring message of support. The presence of the staff and School Governing Body (SGB) added to the event’s significance, with the SGB chairperson expressing gratitude for Beyond Zero’s initiative. Tsepo, a member of the Beyond Zero team, provided an engaging talk on Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and Human Rights, captivating the learners and encouraging them to ask insightful questions.

The Beyond Zero Rivonia office celebrated Mandela Day at Duzenendlela Special School in Orange Farm. The team donated 400 backpacks, significantly enriching the lives of the students. This initiative was supported by Mrs. Mokoena, a devoted teacher who has been instrumental in fostering the partnership between Beyond Zero and the school.

The Beyond Zero Polokwane team commemorated International Mandela Day at Blood River with one of their capacity-building CSOs, Thy Rest. The activities included cleaning the CSO offices and distributing clothing to needy families. The programme was led by the CSO and featured introductions, cleaning of the CSO offices, clothing distribution, and information sharing on the services offered by Thy Rest. They also visited one ECD centre which is also in Blood River (Jesus is Lord academy) with Thy rest. They spent some time with children, assisted with giving children crayons (donated by Thy Rest).

As the day concluded, the Beyond Zero team reflected on the impact of their visit. Beyond the tangible donation of backpacks and clothes, the day highlighted the power of collective action and the importance of supporting those in need within our communities. Through these heartfelt initiatives, Beyond Zero teams demonstrated their commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. Let’s continue to keep Nelson Mandela’s spirit alive through acts of service and compassion!