“In Africa there is a concept known as 'ubuntu' – the profound sense that we are human only through the humanity of others; that if we are to accomplish anything in this world it will in equal measure be due to the work and achievement of others." – Nelson Mandela
In the spirit of ubuntu, Nelson Mandela called on the world not to celebrate his birthday on 18 July, but rather to use the day to extend our shared humanity through volunteering and community service.
This year, Nelson Mandela International Day happens to coincide with a big day for our campus community as well, when Stellenbosch University will welcome all students and staff back 'home' for the first time in almost two and a half years. What better reason to celebrate and reinvigorate our sense of community, and what better opportunity to do so!
The global theme of the 2022 Mandela Day campaign is 'Do what you can, with what you have, wherever you are'.
In line with these three simple imperatives, the Language Centre, Division for Social Impact, Matie Community Service (MGD), Transformation Office and the Student Representative Council (SRC) invite you to join the Mandela Day Booster Box Challenge.
With your help, we want to prepare 200 comfort boxes for our returning students most in need of care, in a fun and convivial way that brings us together as a campus community and boosts our collective morale amid ongoing difficult times. The booster boxes will be distributed during the SU's official Mandela Day celebrations in the Neelsie on Tuesday 19 July.
This is how:
- Pledge a booster box, or two or ten, individually or in teams, and challenge your colleagues or other divisions and centres to up the ante.
- Use standard shoeboxes or any box of similar size.
- Fill each individual box with some student staples and personal hygiene items, such as instant soup, noodles, cereal, energy bars, tuna, baked beans, shampoo, deodorant and toothpaste. Feel free to boost your boxes with a little extra care inside and out – perhaps add a personal note of encouragement and wrap the box with appealing gift wrap.
- Leave the finished, securely sealed Booster Boxes with your departmental secretary or office administrator by 13:00 on Friday 15 July.
- The Division for Social Impact will collect the booster boxes and distribute them during the SU's official Mandela Day celebrations on the Neelsie on Tuesday 19 July.
Will you take up the challenge? Contact Cheryl Cornelissen at cherylc@sun.ac.za or Lize Kruger at lizek@sun.ac.za and make a pledge.
