The Boikemelo Development Centre in Hammanskraal was abuzz with activity and community spirit as it hosted a Fun Walk and 60 Minutes of Service in honour of Mandela Day. This event, celebrating both Nelson Mandela’s legacy and the achievements of the Boikemelo Development Centre, brought together individuals from all walks of life for a day of health, service, and unity.
The event kicked off early in the morning with a Fun Walk, setting a tone of excitement and solidarity. Participants engaged in 30 minutes of exercise and gathered at the starting line, ready to embark on an hour-long walk that meandered through the scenic parts of Hammanskraal.
The walkers, dressed in colorful T-shirts provided by the sponsors, included families, friends, and solo enthusiasts, all united by a shared purpose.
The route offered picturesque views and passed by several community landmarks, with volunteers stationed along the way to provide water and encouragement. The festive atmosphere was palpable, with music playing and participants chatting and laughing. The Fun Walk not only promoted physical health but also strengthened community bonds.
Following the Fun Walk, attendees dedicated 60 minutes to various service activities, aligning with the Mandela Day ethos of “Take Action, Inspire Change.” The Boikemelo Development Centre organised several initiatives, allowing participants to choose how they wanted to contribute.
Nelson Mandela International Day, often known as Mandela Day, is observed annually on July 18th, the birthday of Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa and a global symbol of peace and justice.
The United Nations formally designated Mandela Day in November 2009, with the first celebration taking place on July 18, 2010. This day is more than just a memorial of Mandela’s life; it is a call to action for people all across the world to help improve their communities.
Volunteers painted one of the classrooms at Boikemelo Development Centre and cleaned the yard and the surrounding areas where the center is located. These acts of service embodied Mandela’s values of selflessness and community support.
Organising such a major event was not easy. Lebogang Rakobo, Founder and centre manager of the Boikemelo Skills Development Centre, admitted that they faced various challenges. However, they were able to overcome these challenges thanks to their resilience and the backing of their sponsors. “By God’s grace and the generosity of our sponsors, we were able to bring this event to life,” Rakobo told the crowd.
The success of the event was largely due to the generous contributions of several sponsors. BigSave, Unjani Clinic, Jam Clothing, Boxer, Moretele Community Radio Station in partnership with Tshwane Bulletin LIVE, and Royal Funerals played pivotal roles in ensuring the event’s success.
Their support ranged from providing financial assistance and supplies to offering services that enhanced the overall experience for participants.
