Mandela Day is an annual day in honour of the late Nelson Mandela. Taking place on his birthday, 18 July, it’s a global call-to-action that encourages South Africans and others across the world to spend 67 minutes giving back to their local communities. It draws attention to the fact that anyone can make a difference by donating their time, and it has become an important event on our calendar at Rhino Africa every year. However, what does it really mean to the members of our Rhino Crash? We asked them.
Our Rhino Crash celebrating Mandela Day 2023
Why Mandela Day Matters
The Nelson Mandela Foundation and the United Nations have championed Mandela Day since its declaration in 2009, asking the global community to honour his legacy.
The campaign message is:
“We would be honoured if such a day can serve to bring people together around the world to fight poverty and promote peace, reconciliation and cultural diversity.”
Nelson Mandela is an iconic figure not only in our country but the world, Image Credit: South African Tourism
Hear it from Our Rhino Crash
Rhino Africa has always taken the message of Mandela Day to heart and has been eager to recognise the legacy of our nation’s most revered citizen. Through collaborations with our Impact Partners, we aim to heed the call to action of Mandela Day and do our bit to transform the world.
We asked some of the Rhino Africa Crash to share the importance of Mandela Day and its meaning to them…
“Mandela Day reminds me that each one of us has the power to make a difference, no matter how small our actions may seem. It encourages us to step into the shoes of others, recognise their challenges, and extend a helping hand. By doing so, we foster a sense of unity and promote a culture of compassion and respect.” – Yasmina Adams
Yasmina (left) handing out hugs on Mandela Day 2023
“Spending time with the kids at Khumbulani each year makes me feel really good and helps me realise that even the smallest gesture can help make a difference.” – Ishmat Ahmed
“Seeing the way Khumbulani operates, their staff’s dedication and the amount of care they show for the children gives me a great sense of optimism for the future of our country.” – Chantal Barnard
Chantal carries a wall heater we installed in Khumbulani’s Daycare on Mandela Day
“One of the things I appreciate most about being a part of the Rhino Crash is that we are an impact-driven business and are actively making a difference on the African continent. The opportunity to be a part of that makes me incredibly proud to be a Rhino.Seeing the joy on the faces of the children at Khumbulani when we visit stays with you and is an incredible reminder of just how much impact we can have. Something as small as helping the children paint a picture of a rhino or hugging them puts the biggest smile on their faces. Knowing that we have created a space where they can thrive inspires me to be at my very best each day.” – Brad Mitchell
Doing Good is in Our DNA
Doing good isn’t only part of what we do at Rhino Africa; it’s why we exist. Our purpose goes beyond showcasing the African continent’s marvels to our guests. More importantly, we’re committed to making a sustainable difference in Africa on multiple levels.
“Many times, we leave Khumbulani with wet eyes, more appreciative of our lives than before and vowing to do more, promising to show up for our Khumbulani community and by extension – the families of the amazing kids and staff. The endorphins are contagious! We hold each other accountable and we vow to make bigger inroads of impact each time we engage – not just on special days such as Mandela Day. We are inspired to do more, to go further and to continue to be a bright light in communities who need us most.” – Fazlin Floris
We live to spread joy and make a difference
So, when you choose to travel with us, it’s more than just a holiday. It’s an investment in Africa’s sustainable future that ensures you become part of leaving a lasting legacy on our continent.
Contact our Travel Experts today to plan your dream African holiday that makes a difference.
