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10 Meaningful Things to Do with Kids on Mandela Day 2025 (JHB & CPT)

10 Meaningful Things to Do with Kids on Mandela Day 2025 (JHB & CPT)

Mandela Day is more than a date on the calendar; it's a powerful opportunity to teach our children about kindness, empathy, and community. Spending just 67 minutes in service can spark a lifelong passion for giving. Whether you live in Johannesburg or Cape Town, here are 10 amazing and family-friendly ways to honour Madiba's legacy together.

1. Mandela Day Walk & Run (JHB & CPT)

Join thousands across both cities for this annual event. Choose from 5km, 10km, or 21km routes and walk or run with your children. It’s inclusive (strollers and scooters welcome) and a great way to reflect on Mandela’s message of unity while getting active.

2. Ladles of Love Volunteer Activation Zones (CPT & JHB)

Participate in action zones like Make, Create, Craft, and Grow. You and your kids can help pack food boxes, build edible garden kits, or craft educational toys. These hands-on stations are designed with families in mind and promote creativity and compassion.

Mandela day 1

3. Sandton SPCA Family Volunteer Programme (JHB)

From 1 July to 18 August, the SPCA invites families to help with kennel painting, dog walking, enrichment toy making, and reading to animals in their "Madiba Read-Aloud Corner." A gentle and engaging experience for kids and animal lovers alike

4. Cape of Good Hope SPCA – 67 Acts for Animals (CPT)

Volunteer as a family at the SPCA by helping clean, feed, and care for the animals. Bring along donated items like food, toys, and blankets. It's a heartwarming and meaningful experience, especially for children who love animals.

5. Rise Against Hunger Meal Packaging (JHB & CPT)

Join teams at venues like Grand West Casino, Sandton Convention Centre or Mall of Africa to pack meals for communities in need. While best suited for older kids (ages 11+), this hands-on initiative teaches gratitude and the importance of food security.

6. Zip Zap Circus Juggling Ball Workshop (CPT)

Get creative and crafty while helping the Zip Zap youth development programme. Families can hand-make juggling balls to support circus education. It's a fun and unique way to support a worthy cause while enjoying a bit of silliness.

7. Ikamva Labantu "67 Gogos" Bracelet Beading (CPT)

Take part in this intergenerational activity by making bead bracelets alongside township elders. It’s a beautiful way to connect children with South Africa's cultural heritage and promote cross-generational learning.

8. Johannesburg SPCA Volunteering (JHB)

Spend time cleaning kennels, walking dogs, or donating supplies at the Johannesburg SPCA in Booysens. They welcome families and are always in need of extra hands and hearts.

9. Snack Pack Assembly Line (Anywhere)

If you can't attend an event, create a snack pack station at home. Kids can fill brown paper bags with sandwiches, fruit, and juice, then decorate them with drawings and kind notes. Deliver to local shelters, churches, or schools.

10. Toy and Book Drive (Anywhere)

Encourage your children to sort through their old toys and books to donate. Explain how these items will brighten another child's day. It’s a small gesture with big heart.

Final Thoughts

Nelson Mandela once said, "It is in your hands to make a better world for all who live in it." This Mandela Day, let’s take that to heart—and pass it on to the next generation. Whether you're crafting, walking, cleaning, or sharing a story, you're teaching your children the value of kindness, courage, and service.

Rianedalziel

Riané Dalziel

Riané Dalziel is a dedicated mom of two—a spirited seven-year-old daughter and a curious four-year-old son. With a PhD in Marketing and a passion for digital strategy, Riané combines her academic expertise with practical industry knowledge. She spent nearly a decade lecturing marketing subjects, inspiring students with her innovative insights and hands-on approach. Currenlty, as a digital marketer, Riané continues to bring creativity and strategy together to drive impactful results. As a family-oriented mom, she’s always looking for exciting ways to keep her kids busy, creating meaningful memories while balancing professional ambitions with the joys of family life.

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