Mandela Day is an opportunity to honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela through acts of kindness, service and community action. This year, the Rosebank Management District is coordinating three initiatives that encourage the Rosebank community to make a meaningful difference—whether by enhancing public spaces, supporting those experiencing food insecurity or helping children prepare for the new school term.
Community Greening Initiative | Friday, 17 July
In partnership with Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), the RMD invites businesses, residents, employees and community stakeholders to participate in a community greening initiative at Sturdee Park and Keyes Park. Volunteers will help plant trees and indigenous plants supplied by JCPZ, paint park entrance pillars and refresh sections of the park fencing. Together, these activities will enhance two important public parks while contributing to a greener, more welcoming Rosebank.
Participation Time Slots
To accommodate as many volunteers as possible, participants can register for one of the following one-hour sessions:
- 10:00 – 11:00
- 11:00 – 12:00
- 12:00 – 13:00
- 13:00 – 14:00
To participate in the greening initiative, please RSVP to info@localabode.co.za and indicate your preferred participation time slot. Spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Community Soup Kitchen | Friday, 17 July
The day will begin with a community soup kitchen from 08:30 to 09:30, hosted by Workshop17 at The Bank in partnership with Proud Mary. Together, they will provide warm soup and fresh bread to approximately 150 beneficiaries, offering a simple but meaningful act of kindness to members of the community in need.
Build-a-Backpack Campaign
Running throughout Mandela Month until 31 July, the Rosebank Management District’s Build-a-Backpack Campaign invites businesses, residents and the broader community to support people experiencing homelessness by donating new or gently used backpacks filled with essential everyday items.
Now in its third year, the campaign is run in partnership with the Rosebank Homeless Association and supports residents of the Immaculata Shelter in Rosebank. More than simply providing practical items, each backpack offers dignity, comfort and hope to those navigating difficult circumstances during the winter months.
Suggested donations include clothing such as jerseys, trousers, socks, shoes and beanies, toiletries including soap, a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and body lotion, as well as towels, blankets and laundry detergent. Every contribution, whether a fully packed backpack or a few essential items, makes a meaningful difference.
Donations can be dropped off at the Rosebank Visitor Centre inside Rosebank Mall (Bath Avenue entrance) until 31 July 2026. Community members and organisations wishing to make bulk donations are encouraged to contact the RMD Operations team for assistance
Please note: While Mandela Day is commemorated annually on 18 July, this year it falls on a Saturday. To maximise participation from businesses, employees and community stakeholders, the Rosebank Management District (RMD) will host its Mandela Day activities on Friday, 17 July, giving the precinct an opportunity to come together in service before the weekend.