Your 67 Minutes Can Change the World!!

 Imagine this: Just like one candle can light another, one act of kindness can lead to real change.

That’s what Mandela Day is all about.

Celebrated every year on 18 July, Mandela Day is more than just a holiday, it’s a chance for ordinary people to become everyday heroes. The idea is simple but powerful: give just 67 minutes of your time to do something good. Why 67? Because Nelson Mandela was 67 years old when he walked out of prison, after dedicating his life to fighting for justice, freedom, and equality.

 Why Mandela Day Is Important

Mandela Day reminds us that every small act of kindness matters. It shows that we all have the power to make a positive difference, no matter how small. It also brings us closer to one another and helps create a spirit of Ubuntu ''I am because we are''.    

For me, it’s also a reminder that service should not only happen once a year but every day in our small actions and attitudes.

What People Usually Do on Mandela Day

On Mandela Day, individuals, schools, companies, and communities across South Africa and the world take action by volunteering, donating, and supporting those in need. People often spend 67 minutes:

• Helping at shelters or hospitals

• Cleaning streets or parks

• Packing food or clothing parcels

• Reading to children or visiting the elderly

• Raising awareness or collecting donations for causes  

How We Spent Our 67 Minutes at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital

We dedicated our 67 minutes to serving with care and compassion at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, through the UJ APB Community Engagement initiative.

I had the opportunity to volunteer in the hospital’s laundry section, helping with sorting and packing clothes. I wore a gown, gloves, and a mask and worked alongside others who were committed to serving with purpose.

But I wasn’t alone, Mandela Day brought many of us together in service. Some volunteers helped in the kitchen, preparing meals. Others were cleaning different parts of the hospital. A few worked in the garden, bringing life and care to the space. Some even assisted in the ICU, washing beds and supporting hospital staff where it mattered most.

A Message to the Community

To all the good people out there:
Take time to join us next year in community engagement. Even 67 minutes can change someone’s life. Giving back doesn’t require money just a willing heart, a helping hand, and the courage to care.

Let’s keep the spirit of Mandela alive through actions, not just words.   

 See You Next Year!
 I’m proud of what we did together and excited for what’s to come.  I want to do more than just 67 minutes in the coming years. I want to keep doing good for others every day.

I hope to see more students, more volunteers, and more acts of kindness next year.

Small contributions. Big heart. Lasting impact.