Elders’ council team busy serving food to the need in Marabastard Photos supplied by elder Nantale
P r e t o r i a , S o u t h A f r i c a – In a heartwarming display of community spirit and a profound dedication to the ideals of the late Nelson Mandela , the Elders’ Council Pretoria recently undertook a powerful initiative to feed street children in Marabastad on Mandela Day. Led by the inspiring Nantele and Musomesa Mike, the team of elders spent the day ensuring that vulnerable children received nutritious meals, embodying one of Madiba’s most cherished dreams: a South Africa where no one goes hungry.
Mandela Day, celebrated annually on July 18th, is a global call to action, encouraging individuals to dedicate 67 minutes of their time
to community service in honor of Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of service to humanity. The Elders’ Council Pretoria truly embraced this spirit, extending their efforts to make a tangible difference in the lives of those most in need.
Marabastad, a bustling and often challenging area in Pretoria, is home to a significant number of street children who face daily struggles with poverty, lack of shelter, and food insecurity. For these children, a warm meal is not just sustenance; it’s a beacon of hope and areminder that they are not forgotten.
Under the guidance of Nantele, whose vision and compassion steered the project, and Musomesa
Mike, who provided invaluable leadership and coordination, the Elders’ Council meticulously planned and executed the food distribution. Their dedication highligh t s the in v aluable role that older generations play in nurturing communities and preserving the legacy of leaders like Nelson Mandela.
“Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces was the greatest reward,” shared Nantele, reflecting on the day’s events. “Mandela believed in a nation where everyone had enough to eat, and it is our duty as elders to continue his work, to be the change we wish to see.”
Musomesa Mike added, “This initiative was more than just providing food; it was about showing these children that they are valued, that they are part of our community, and that there are people who care deeply for their well-being. It’s about instilling hope where there might be despair.”
The Elders’ Council Pretoria’s commitment to tackling food insecurity among street children serves as a powerful reminder of Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy. Their actions demonstrate that the dream of a fed and cared-for South Africa is not just a distant ideal, but a tangible goal that can be achieved through collective effort and unwavering compassion.
