Celebrating Mandela Day at Afrika Tikkun

This Mandela Day we had the privilege of spending our 67 minutes with one of our CSR partners – Afrika Tikkun – contributing to society.

Founded in 1994, Afrika Tikkun is dedicated to fostering the potential of young people and creating a sustainable future for the youth of South Africa. It now offers a 360° model providing education, health, and social services to young people and their families through centres of excellence in South African townships – taking young people from ‘cradle to career’. Sasfin has partnered with Afrika Tikkun for more than 14 years not only with regular financial contributions but also through on-the-ground volunteering.

On Mandela Day, 18 July 2024, our day started early with a warm breakfast shared among Sasfin volunteers. There was a sense of excitement and camaraderie as we gathered, ready to make a positive impact. The atmosphere buzzed with conversations and laughter as we climbed onto the bus, setting a joyful tone for the day ahead.

When we arrived at Afrika Tikkun in Orange Farm, we were greeted with the sounds of the Afrika Tikkun children and staff singing and dancing, welcoming us into their community.

5 Ways of Making a Difference:

Our Sasfin volunteers were divided into different teams. Each team was assigned a specific task aimed at improving the lives of the children at Afrika Tikkun in the Orange Farm community and their environment.

• Red Team: Our Red Team revitalised a classroom by painting it in a vibrant yellow, creating an engaging and welcoming learning environment for the children.
• Green Team: The Green Team focused on sustainability. They planted vegetable gardens, ensuring that the community has access to fresh, nutritious food while promoting environmental care.
• Black Team: The Black Team took on the task of painting the corridors, transforming the space into a more professional, polished area. The newly painted corridors added a sense of pride and ownership to the facility.
• White Team: Dedicated to creativity and joy, the White Team made masks and played with the children, fostering a sense of fun and artistic expression. The laughter and artistic expressions brought a sense of fun and freedom, allowing the kids to explore their creativity.
• Blue Team: Our Blue Team prepared a delicious and wholesome lunch for the children and volunteers, nurturing connections and community through the sharing of food.

Reflecting on Mandela’s Legacy

Mandela Day is more than just a day of service; it is a reminder of the power of community and the impact we can make when we come together. This was highlighted throughout the day as volunteers and community members worked side by side, with a shared sense of purpose and dedication to making a positive contribution.

Beyond Banking: A Commitment to Positive Change

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our experiences. We were reminded of the importance of building long-term personal relationships, contributing to society, and nurturing our people. Thank you to the staff and children of Africa Tikkun for giving us the privilege of spending a day with you and allowing us to make a small contribution to the incredible work you do. Thank you to each Sasfin staff member who volunteered and came together with joy and unity, bringing our purpose statement of contributing to society alive. Together, we can go beyond.