African Innovations Solutions hosts moving Mandela Day event
AFRICAN Innovations Solutions (AIS) organised a remarkable Mandela Day event at Langa High School on July 18. The event brought together various dignitaries, community leaders and inspiring individuals to celebrate the legacy of Nelson Mandela while promoting empowerment and capacity building among the youth.
Mayibuye Mandela, the greatgrandson of Nelson Mandela and an AIS intern, spearheaded the initiative. As a former student of Langa High School, he expressed his desire to give back to his alma mater and create opportunities for the youth.
The event served as a platform to inspire and motivate the students, showcasing the potential they hold within themselves.
Langa High School acting principal Nandipha Mandongana, in opening the event, expressed the school’s gratitude for being chosen by African Innovations Solutions for the special occasion and emphasised their commitment to continue empowering their students in collaboration with AIS going forward.
Among the guests was Muhammad Khalid Sayed, a member of the Western Cape provincial parliament. Sayed shared his journey and encouraged the young attendees to believe in their abilities, emphasising that they could achieve anything that they set their minds to.
He also highlighted the fact that Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa was a former student of Langa High School, further inspiring the students with a tangible example of success.
The event received international support as well, with the presence of Changan Tang, the Deputy Consulate-general of the People’s Republic of China, who not only addressed the gathering but also engaged the students by teaching them how to greet in Chinese, an activity they thoroughly enjoyed.
He revealed that the People's Republic of China has named a star after Nelson Mandela as a symbol of solidarity with South Africa, underlining the strong bond between the two nations. As a gesture of support, the consulate donated R50000 to Langa High School.
Further amplifying the spirit of giving,
Mrs Chen Qing, the chairperson of the Soong Ching Ling Foundation, took to the stage to inspire the children. She generously donated R10 000, which contributed towards 60 pairs of school shoes, providing essential resources for the students’ education and well-being.
Yagyah Nasiep, representing the Al-imdaad Foundation, announced their donation of 67 blankets and sanitary towels to the school, addressing crucial needs and promoting a comfortable
learning environment.
Additionally, Hybr donated R2 000, jars of peanut butter, and the services of a videographer were made available to capture the event.
Best-selling author Yusuf Daniels motivated the learners and donated copies of his book titled Living The Hussle – Dala What You Must.
The entertainment was provided by the school pupils’ marimba band.
The Representative Council of Learners chairperson Zintle Mbilini
and secretary Lithetha Tikaba expressed their appreciation for the support received.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by many black children from disadvantaged backgrounds, they recognised the significance of these donations and pledged to make the most of the opportunities presented to them.
The AIS Mandela Day event at Langa High School served as a powerful reminder of the impact individuals and organisations can have when they come together to uplift and empower the younger generation.
By providing resources, inspiration, and tangible examples of success, the event aimed to create a lasting impact on the lives of these students, encouraging them to dream big and pursue their goals with determination.
As the event concluded, the positive energy and hope for a brighter future lingered in the air. The AIS and its partners had successfully celebrated the spirit of Nelson Mandela, spreading his message of unity, compassion, and education among the youth of Langa. It is through such initiatives that the seeds of change are sown, paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous society. |