July 2023 – In the true spirit of Nelson Mandela’s legacy, the young learners of The Ridge School demonstrated their commitment to making a positive impact in their community by organising a series of heartfelt and varied initiatives to mark Mandela Day. Each grade at the school took on a unique project, all aimed at benefitting different beneficiaries across Johannesburg.
Grade 0 students collected essential groceries and cleaning supplies for The Salvation Army Emmarentia Eventide Home. Grade 1 boys prepared over 67 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for St Vincent De Paul, aiding the homeless in Johannesburg. Meanwhile, Grade 2 learners created personalised cards and donated biscuits to bring joy to the residents of Park Care Center. The Grade 3’s, in their own storybooks, contributed to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, bringing comfort and inspiration to their young peers in need.
One Grade 2 learner, Pako Mongwaketsi, beautifully expressed how he felt about Mandela Day saying, “Mandela Day is about being good to other people, making them feel good.”
In the senior prep, the Grade 4 boys initiated a collection drive for an animal charity, ensuring the well-being of their furry friends. Grade 5 learners prepared 250 sandwiches for Not Bread Alone Ministries, while the Grade 6’s dedicated their efforts to Princess Alice Adoption Home, treating the staff to a pamper package and collecting wish list items. Lastly, Grade 7 boys hosted a heart-warming tea at Park Care Centre, spending quality time with the elderly residents and making their day memorable.
Frank Rumboll, Headmaster of The Ridge School, expressed his pride in the learners’ enthusiastic engagement in the various Mandela Day activations. “We are thrilled to see our boys embracing the true essence of Mandela Day by extending kindness and support to a diverse range of beneficiaries in our community. Their efforts exemplify the values of empathy, generosity, and service that we aim to instil in our learners at The Ridge School.”
The Ridge School remains committed to nurturing well-rounded individuals who actively contribute to building a better society, just as Nelson Mandela envisioned.
