As South Africans, we know the default association most people make with us globally is either rugby or Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela.
Now more than ever, Tata Madiba continues to rest in power, with his legacy celebrated through calls to action each year on Mandela Day.
Every year on July 18, people around the world dedicate 67 minutes to service in honour of the 67 years that South Africa's first democratically elected president spent fighting for justice, freedom, and human rights.
The idea is simple: small acts, when multiplied, can make a big difference.
Mandela Day, inspired during Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday in 2008, was officially declared by the United Nations in 2009 and first celebrated globally in 2010.
“This year’s theme is both a challenge and a call for solidarity. We are inviting the world to respond with action, to tackle poverty, fight inequity, and build a society grounded in dignity, justice, and shared humanity,” said Nelson Mandela Foundation CEO Dr. Mbongiseni Buthelezi.
Cape Town never holds back when it comes to community spirit, and Mandela Day is no exception.
Whether you’re packing food parcels, joining a city-wide clean-up, or crafting toys for kids in need, here’s how you can get involved this year—with options for all ages, interests, and time commitments.
National Events
Mandela Day Walk & Run 2025 (with Virtual Mandela Day Walk & Run option)
Lace-up for the annual Mandela Day Walk & Run taking place on Saturday, 19 July 2025, with 5km, 10km, and 21km routes starting from 07:30. Entry fees range from R100 to R200, and all participants will receive a finisher’s medal. Race number collection takes place on 17 and 18 July at the venue.
Runners can also earn Discovery Vitality points—300 for 5km, 600 for 10km, and 1,500 for 21km. Commemorative t-shirts are available online when registering. (Note: No pets allowed on race day.)
Can't make it in person? Join the virtual race from anywhere on Sunday, 20 July 2025 - Register to complete a walk or run and connect globally.
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Rise Against Hunger Africa Food-Packing Events
On July 18, 2025, teams will pack nutritious meals across South Africa:
- Cape Town: GrandWest Casino & Entertainment World (fully booked)
- Johannesburg, Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Bloemfontein: various venues
Cape Town-Specific Events to Celebrate Madiba Day this July
FoodForward SA Mandela Day Packing
Hosted at Century City Conference Centre on July 18, 2025, starting at 09:30. | Tickets R67
Pack food parcels to address local food insecurity. "Mandela Day Food Drive will not only provide essential food items to address food insecurity, but also foster unity and collective action toward a shared goal- achieving food security for all." Book via Webtickets or visit foodforwardsa.org
Mandela Day Wine Raffle Returns: Win 80 Bottles for a Good Cause
The Botriver Vineyards Association is bringing back its popular Mandela Day Wine Raffle for 2025, with proceeds supporting youth development and community upliftment projects in the region. One lucky winner will take home 80 bottles of premium wine from 13 top Botriver wineries.
Tickets are R100 via Quicket | Draw on 18 July 2025
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Ladles of Love Activation Stations
- At DHL Stadium (Cape Town) on July 18, 2025. Various time slots
- Register via Ladles of Love Website
- Tickets cost R250 per person
All proceeds will go towards feeding a child two healthy meals a day for a month. Participate in Four zones: Make (food bundles), Create (educational posters), Craft (toys/dolls) or Grow (garden kits).
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CPUT Mandela Day Awareness Campaign
Cape Peninsula University of Technology is running a campaign within its campuses, focusing on food and period poverty. Donations can be made on July 18 and July 31 at the following locations:
Bellville Campus: Sports Hall and Student Centre from 10 am to 2pm.
Spotlight Everyday Change-makers
Liberty Promenade Mall in Mitchells Plain has launched its 'Heroes Among Us' campaign ahead of Mandela Day 2025. Nominate unsung community heroes making a lasting impact through ongoing, selfless service: From teachers and coaches to healthcare workers and NGO volunteers, the campaign seeks to honour those quietly transforming their communities.
Shortlisted nominees will be featured in a powerful photo exhibition at the mall this July, with one standout individual receiving up to R20,000 to support their work. Nominations are open via the Liberty Promenade website and social media channels.
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French‑SA Chamber & Zip Zap Circus Workshop (registered members only)
- Zip Zap Circus Academy, On July 18, 2025, from 12:00‑13:30
Join a creative Mandela Day initiative with Zip Zap Circus by crafting juggling balls to support their free youth outreach programmes.
Don't forget the fur babies!
Donate a fleece blanket for just R39 to help shelter pets stay warm this winter as part of Petworld’s Winter Blanket Drive (1–26 July). On Mandela Day (18 July), every blanket you buy will be matched by Petworld, doubling the impact for animals in need. All proceeds go to local animal shelters.
Organise your own 67-minute mission
Not near an official event? Here are a few DIY Mandela Day ideas:
- Host a community clean-up in your neighbourhood or along a stretch of coastline.
- Donate school stationery or sanitary products to a local shelter or NPO.
- Cook a meal for someone else - a neighbour, car guard, security staff, or stranger.
- Plant a small food garden at a local school, creche or on your stoep.
- Give your time or skills—whether that’s tutoring, resume help, or lifting boxes.
Mandela Day is about more than 67 minutes. It’s about turning compassion into action. Whether you’re knitting a scarf, painting a wall, or feeding a family, the heart of the day is in choosing service over silence. Have an event to include? Tag us on social or email hello@timeoutsouthafrica.com.