On July 18th, in the spirit of Ubuntu and unity, Mr Price Foundation stepped boldly into communities across Durban, joining millions across the globe in honouring Nelson Mandela’s legacy through service.
This Mandela Day, commemorating what would have been Madiba’s 107th birthday, signified the beginning of a new chapter in the Foundation’s journey, focused on deeper collaboration and lasting community impact.
Over 450 Mr Price Group associates swapped their desks for dustpans, garden gloves, kitchen utensils and open hearts as they partnered with three remarkable youth-focused NGOs: iCare in Morningside, Gozololo Centre for Needy Children in KwaMashu, and The Valley Trust in the Valley of 1000 Hills. With sleeves rolled up and spirits high, teams worked hand-in-hand with these organisations to uplift environments, support essential services, and bring joy to underserved youth.
At iCare, volunteers supported the organisation’s efforts in rehabilitating and reintegrating street-connected youth, preparing meals, tidying spaces, and helping to create structured, nurturing environments.
At Gozololo, teams tended gardens, refreshed facilities, and brought new life to outdoor play areas for the children they serve. The bright energy of Mr Price volunteers echoed the hope that lives at the heart of this child protection centre.
And at The Valley Trust, a blend of environmental and wellness-focused activities, from vegetable garden maintenance to book covering, reflected the holistic approach the Trust takes to health and development.
“Our volunteers lent a hand, offering compassion, time, and presence,” said Octavius Phukubye, Director of the Mr Price Foundation. “This Mandela Day, our mission as a youth empowerment champion came to life in action, and we’re proud to walk alongside these NGOs who do this work every day.”
What made the day remarkable was the genuine connections formed, and the number of tasks completed, which were not just once-off gestures of goodwill. These were building blocks for deeper, sustained partnerships. In each brushstroke, garden bed, and shared meal, Madiba’s values were embodied.
For Mr Price Foundation, every day is Mandela Day. Whether through education, skills development, or entrepreneurship programmes, the goal remains steadfast: empower South Africa’s youth and nurture resilient, thriving communities.
As we reflect on this impactful day, we are reminded that change is not necessarily a grand gesture. Change begins with one action, one person, one moment of care. And when over 450 people take that moment together, the ripple effect is powerful.
A heartfelt thank you to all our trading divisions, associates, ambassadors, and partners who helped make #MandelaDay2025 a resounding success. We’re especially grateful to City Logistics and Spar for your generous support and assistance in transporting donations to the communities we served.
Your contributions helped bring our vision to life and made a real difference on the ground.
Together, we stepped out of office and into action, and we will continue walking this path, hand-in-hand with our communities, every day of the year.
