Nelson Mandela spent 67 years making the world a better place in public service. Every 18th of July, people everywhere – but South Africans especially – are asked to give only 67 minutes doing something similar.
Every person has the power to change the world, and it starts with the simplest acts of kindness.
Londolozi’s history with Madiba goes back to when he first visited us upon his release from prison. Thereafter he returned multiple times, ultimately endorsing the Londolozi Conservation Model as being representative of his dream for South African Nature Conservation.
Today he is honoured in Freedom’s Way, a pathway running right through the heart of the Londolozi Village that symbolized his long walk to freedom.
And every year on this day the Londolozi family gathers to celebrate Madiba’s life; to spend time in each other’s company in some act of service for our community. Sometimes we plant flowerbeds, other times we decorate areas, and this year we assembled to repaint the playground of our creche:
Just a kid at heart after all! Ranger Chris Taylor gets nostalgic as he paints the swings.
Sersant Sibuyi and Richie Mthabine, two of Londolozi’s best trackers, share a quick joke.
Ranger Guy Brunskill applies his painting finesse to the see-saw.
Maria Tibane from Housekeeping adds some primary colour to the Jungle Gym stairs.
Shadrack Mkhabela, Londolozi Tracker, chuckles as he heads to grab a fresh batch of paint.
Sophie Khoza from the Londolozi Spaza shop clearly disagrees with whatever painting advice she’s being given!
Ranger Rob Jeffery, intent on his work, taking care of those harder-to-reach spots on the Wendy House.
Fortunate Sibuyi of the Londolozi Staff Canteen applies the finishing touches to the Jungle Gym.
Jemma Brewitt from the Marketing team gets mistaken for a piece of playground equipment and is painted.
Laura Hodgkinson contemplates splattering Julia Munnik with green paint. Julia laughs nervously in return.
This man has tracked many big cats! Richard Mthabine.
It feel so good to do something, no matter how small, for someone else, to improve their lives. Wonderful work that the Londolozi staff do.
A truly great man not only for Africa but as a model for the world
James, wonderful tribute to Mandela
Wonderful photos illustrating the gathering together of staff members, engaging in a project that provides the youngsters there a safe and colorful place to play. Mandela was one of the world’s great leaders and throughout his presidency, he didn’t fail to recognize the importance of saving and creating safe spaces for mother nature’s creatures. Thank you Londolozi for continuing to do your part.
The ideals live on! We hope for the same here in America after the current nightmare of Trump ends.
Thank you for those smiling faces. Always great to start my day in Hawai’i with the Londolozi blog.
Long live Madiba’s dream and the peace ghost comes from helping others!
We have been away with our eldest son and his family and I had my phone off until today. What a wonderful lot of blogs i was able to enjoy. Made my day. You are not rid of us, we are coming to see you in January. Until then I will look forward to my morning treats from the bush. Victoria
This is not only heart warming, but inspiring.