Executive Mayor of city of Tshwane Dr Nasiphi Moya spend 67 minutes with elderly in Atteridgeville photos supplied
By Dr Nasiphi Moya
Executive Mayor of Tshwane
On Mandela day, I had the privilege of spending Mandela Day with the elderly in Atteridgeville as part of the 67 Acts of Dignity initiative hosted by House of Afrindi and Lacquer Nail and Beauty Clinic, together with the MMC for Corporate and Shared Services, Cllr Flora Monama.
This initiative reflects our commitment as the City of Tshwane to restoring dignity,
strengthening social inclusion and working alongside community organisations to improve the lives of vulnerable residents through meaningful acts of service inspired
by the values of Nelson Mandela.
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.
It also reminds us that our elderly deserve to be honoured, not only for what they have done, but for who they are.
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.
It was heartwarming to spend time with nearly 100 elderly residents who enjoyed
wellness and pampering treatments, foot spa and nail care, storytelling, live
entertainment, dignity packs and other essential items.
More importantly, it was an opportunity to share in their stories, celebrate their contribution to our communities and remind them that they are not forgotten.
I want to express my sincere appreciation to House of Afrindi and Lacquer Nail and
Beauty Clinic for hosting this initiative and creating such a meaningful platform to
honour the elderly.
I am especially grateful to the founder, Ms Thatohatsi Mangcu, who approached the City to partner in this initiative and whose passion for serving others brought so many people together.
My thanks also go to the participating community organisations, volunteers and
every partner who generously contributed towards the dignity packs and helped make today possible.
Your generosity demonstrates the true spirit of Mandela Day.
Today’s initiative showed what is possible when government, communities, businesses and volunteers work together in service of others.
These partnerships do more than deliver programmes.
They restore dignity,strengthen communities and remind people that they matter.
As the City of Tshwane, we remain committed to working with organisations, businesses and residents to create more opportunities that promote healthy ageing, strengthen social inclusion and improve the lives of our most vulnerable residents.
Mandela Day may call on us to give 67 minutes of service, but the compassion,
dignity and humanity it represents should guide how we serve one another every day
of the year.
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