UKZN’s Corporate Relations Division (CRD) hosted a webinar in support of the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day campaign.
Established to commemorate Nelson Mandela’s legacy, the 67 Blankets campaign which has a global footprint, seeks to help those less fortunate through various community engagement initiatives.
Executive Director: CRD Ms Normah Zondo said the University was proud to be involved in the initiative and the impact it has had on communities in need. She recalled the history of the event – held in honour of Mandela’s birthday – which sees individuals spend 67 minutes of their time doing something good for others on 18 July.
‘The 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day initiative has inspired thousands of volunteers across South Africa and around the globe to unite in contributing their time and resources to knit and crochet blankets for individuals facing extreme poverty, illness and/or difficult circumstances. These blankets not only provide warmth and comfort, but serve as a symbol of hope and solidarity for those who may feel alone or forgotten,’ said Zondo in her welcome address.
Campaign Ambassador Ms Linda Zama highlighted how the 67 Blankets movement celebrates the greatness of a global icon. Started by Mrs Carolyn Steyn, ‘the initiative reflects some of Mandela’s attributes including love, caring and sharing through crocheting and knitting, which also happens to be very therapeutic,’ Zama said.
KwaZulu-Natal convenor Ms Susan Eslick reflected on her journey with the 67 Blankets drive that started eight years ago and told of some of the highlights which include being part of the Guinness World Record for the “The Largest Crochet Blanket in the World” held at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
Emphasising how the initiative had brought the country and the world together over a common thread, Eslick said beneficiary request forms were available for any organisations in need of blankets and listed some of the organisations which had already benefitted including iKhethelo Children’s Village in Hillcrest, old age homes and associations for the disabled. She also highlighted how there would be a bid to collect 670 blankets at the Holy Family College in Durban on 10 June.
Campaign Ambassador Ms Frankie Hills called on all individuals to start crocheting or knitting and to contact the organisation for beginners’ sessions.
In closing, Zondo appealed to UKZN staff and students to look out for various crocheting and knitting sessions on University campuses. ‘Each and every one of us is needed to create a better world for all – even if it’s through a single act of kindness – so continue to be kind and make sure you lend a hand where it’s needed.’
For more information on the 67 Blanket event on 10 June contact Zama or Eslick at lczama@gmail.com and seslick65@gmail.com.
Learn more about the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day organisation here.
