Nearly 100 senior citizens were treated to a day of wellness, care and celebration during the “67 Acts of Dignity” Mandela Day initiative held in Atteridgeville on 18 July.
The event, hosted by House of Afrindi and Lacquer Nail and Beauty Clinic, brought together community members, volunteers, local organisations and the City of Tshwane to honour elderly residents through meaningful acts of service inspired by the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela.
Senior citizens enjoyed wellness and pampering treatments, including foot spa and nail care services, entertainment, storytelling sessions, refreshments and dignity packs containing essential items.
Mayor of Tshwane, Dr Nasiphi Moya, attended the event alongside MMC for Corporate and Shared Services Cllr Flora Monama. Speaking about the importance of the initiative, Mayor Moya said Mandela Day serves as a reminder that service is measured by the difference it makes in the lives of others.
“Mandela Day reminds us that service is not measured by the size of the gesture, but by the difference it makes in the life of another person,” said Moya.
She added that elderly residents deserve to be honoured for their lifelong contributions to families and communities.
“They have cared for our families, built our communities and helped shape the city we call home. They deserve to feel valued, respected and cared for every day,” she said.
Mayor Moya also praised the organisers and volunteers who contributed to the initiative’s success, particularly House of Afrindi founder, Ms Thatohatsi Mangcu, whose vision brought together various partners to support senior citizens.
Community members welcomed the initiative and praised the involvement of young people in caring for older generations.
Kgomotso Mdima, a resident of Atteridgeville, said it was encouraging to see young people taking the lead in community upliftment.
“It makes us proud to see young women like Thatohatsi giving back to the community and showing love to our elderly people. We need more young people to follow this example and remember the importance of caring for those who came before us,” the resident said.
Another resident said the event demonstrated that the youth are capable of making a positive impact in society.
“People often focus on the negative things young people do, but initiatives like this show that there are young people who are making a real difference. It gives us hope for the future,” the resident said.
Thabo Moabela described the initiative as a fitting way to celebrate Mandela Day.
“Mandela Day is about helping others and restoring dignity. Seeing our senior citizens being appreciated and cared for today was heartwarming and shows that the spirit of Ubuntu is still alive in our community,” he said.
The “67 Acts of Dignity” initiative forms part of House of Afrindi’s ongoing efforts to support senior citizens through wellness programmes and community-based services. Organisers hope the event will inspire more residents, businesses and organisations to contribute to the well-being of elderly people throughout the year.
Mayor Moya said while Mandela Day encourages people to dedicate 67 minutes to serving others, the compassion and dignity it represents should guide communities every day.
The event highlighted the power of partnerships among community organisations, volunteers, businesses, and government to create a more caring and inclusive society for vulnerable residents.
