5 Acts of service inspired by Mandela Month

It’s Mandela Month – a time to reflect on Nelson Mandela’s life and legacy, and get involved in the various humanitarian causes of our nation that support those less fortunate. In this article, we have looked at five acts of service that make a difference in the lives of others. Which will you take on this year? (Click here to learn about Mandela Day on 18 July.)

Acts of service to get involved in this Mandela Month:

1. Arranging stationery packs for schools

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

If you are willing to spend some money on a worthy cause, stationery packs can be a great way to support under-resourced schools in your local community. Buy some pens, pencils, rulers, highlighters, glue sticks, crayons, and notebooks, and package them for delivery. Stationery packs can go to both teachers and learners, so are always a useful donation!

2. Posting about worthy causes on social media 

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” – Nelson Mandela

When you have the desire to make a change, it's important to do what you can from where you are. Even if that means not leaving your house, and simply posting on social media. With so many foundations and NPOs to support in South Africa, spreading the word about them is a noble act of service.

3. Building homes with Habitat for Humanity

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela

Habitat for Humanity is a popular humanitarian organisation and is represented in countries all over the world. In honour of Mandela’s legacy, you can choose to get involved in this initiative and help build houses for local families in need. Making sure others are safe and warm at night is an amazing contribution to society.

4. Tutoring someone in your mother tongue

“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”  – Nelson Mandela

Is your mother tongue English? Afrikaans, perhaps? Whatever South African language is your first language, making a commitment to teach it to someone else who speaks it as, say, their third language, can go a long way in establishing a prosperous future. As far as acts of service go, this one can really have a lasting impact on someone’s life.

5. Blogging about a cause that you’re passionate about

“A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.” – Nelson Mandela

If you’re a decent writer with an online following, why not use this opportunity to blog about a cause that’s close to your heart? Whether it’s feeding the hungry and providing medical assistance to those in need, or simply handing out warm coats to people on the street – if you care about the cause, it will come across in your writing. And hopefully, inspire others to play their part.

Will you make these acts of service your own?

Choose to make a difference in your community this Mandela Month, and take on one or more of these acts of service. And if you want to travel around our country to spread your influence even further, don’t forget to make a booking at one of our beautiful accommodations.