10 Things Young People Can Do On Nelson Mandela Day

On this day many people around the world are encouraged to spend at least 67 minutes doing something positive for their communities. It is to honor the 67 years late South African president, Nelson Mandela, spent fighting for social justice, equality and democracy. Young people can also do their part regardless of their budget, the following ways will guide you as you help your community today.

1. Help At A Local Orphanage

There are many ways you can help at the orphanage in your town, and you don’t always need to have money to do so. You can help with cleaning, cooking, or even teaching the kids how to read.

2. Donate Toys and Books To Under-Resourced Schools.

Mandela said “education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” You can take this opportunity on the 18 July to donate educational toys and books for children in under-resourced schools, creches and orphanages.

3. Donate Toys To The Children’s Ward At A Local Hospital.

There is no way you can go wrong with kids and toys. Lighten up a sick child’s day in your local hospital by giving them toys on Mandela Day.  You can also drop off at police stations, where they are kept at the victim empowerment centre for abandoned and abused children when they come in for counseling

4. Donate Your Time and Talent

Your time and talent can rival the purchasing power of cold, hard cash. So, either volunteer to help with the day-to-day tasks undertaken by local charities or offer a specialized service based on your own unique skill set: cook someone a delicious meal, design a pamphlet, offer some website tips.

5. Pack ‘Care Packages’

You can make portable packages consisting of a toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, soap, cream and socks and hand them out at a shelter for the homeless. you could pack some snack boxes and fill their day with some sunshine. You can include whatever you find necessary.

6. Use Social Media

Social media can go a long way when you want to reach out to the masses. Research something you care about and share your findings on social media, creating awareness is creating change.

7. Teach Someone A Skill.

You can teach someone a skill and also have that person teach you something you don’t know. You don’t need to be particularly great at it and neither does the other person but can anyone really complain about learning something new?

8. Be A Leader

Take initiative and plan how your place of employment can make a difference by donating 67 minutes. You can also grab a bunch of friends, head down to your local park or beach, and pick up some of the trash

9. Say Thank You.

Make someone else’s day by simply saying ‘thank you’. It can be as easy as taking a security guard a cup of coffee or helping your kids draw a thank you card for their teacher or librarian.

10. Be Random

Random acts of kindness never go unnoticed; give way to another car in traffic, offer your seat to someone when traveling on public transport, encourage a colleague at work and be kind in any way you can. These gestures may seem small, but the ripple has to start somewhere.