On 18 July, M-Powerment Care brought the spirit of Mandela Day to life through Mission Madiba – a large-scale community engagement initiative made possible through the support and collaboration of student leaders and volunteers from the University of Pretoria (UP). The initiative united Community Engagement Outreach Officer representatives from House Commercii, House Humanities , EBIT House, NAT House, and STARS Mentorship. Alongside them were students enrolled in the JCP Community Engagement Module, as well as numerous student volunteers who dedicated their time to making a meaningful difference.
Centred on the values of service, sustainability, and social responsibility, Mission Madiba encouraged participants to move beyond the symbolic 67 minutes traditionally associated with Mandela Day and commit to creating lasting impact within communities. Through collaborative efforts and hands-on volunteerism, students demonstrated that meaningful change begins when people choose to respond to the needs around them.
Founded in 2021, M-Powerment Care has grown from a simple initiative distributing sandwiches to people experiencing homelessness into a youth-led non-profit organisation committed to addressing food insecurity, education, and community upliftment. Reflecting on the organisation’s journey, Chief Executive Officer Similo Siyenga explained that what began as a small act of compassion has grown into a movement guided by one principle: “The Need is the Call to Responsive Action.” This year’s Mission Madiba placed particular emphasis on sustainable service through the “Plant Seeds to Feed Students” campaign that forms part of the Roots & Rise programme. During Mandela Month, volunteers planted more than 900 vegetable seedlings, which will contribute fresh produce to the university’s Student Nutrition and Progress Programme (SNAPP), helping address student food insecurity through a long-term, sustainable solution rather than temporary relief.
Project co-ordinator Nomusa explained that M-Powerment Care’s work extends beyond Mandela Day through three flagship programmes: Edu-Bridge, which equips learners for higher education; Welfare, which supports vulnerable communities through initiatives such as the 670 Pads Campaign; and Roots & Rise, which grows fresh produce to support students and surrounding communities. She noted that while the organisation initially focused on emergency relief, it has evolved towards sustainable programmes that empower communities to become self-sufficient.
For Nomusa, Mandela Day is about more than just giving back. They noted, “It is about helping others, giving them the power to also help, and encouraging them to help others. We develop as a community, not just as individuals.” For Moleboheng Stona, Community Outreach Officer for EBIT House, Mission Madiba showcased the strength of collaboration across the university. Her role involved connecting EBIT House with M-Powerment Care, mobilising volunteers, and encouraging students to participate alongside STARS Mentorship. Stona explained, “Impact is not always about leading from the front. It’s about bringing people together for a common purpose. If my contribution inspires even one more person to volunteer or serve someone in need, then I believe I have made a meaningful difference.”
Representing House Humanities, Community Outreach Officer Tiyani Phaweni highlighted how Mission Madiba extended student leadership beyond campus. Together with fellow student leaders and volunteers, he helped rehabilitate unused land at a local secondary school by clearing overgrown areas and planting seedlings that will one day provide food for learners and their families. For him, Mandela Day is about creating a legacy that extends beyond 67 minutes. He believes that leadership requires commitment, consistency, and compassion, encouraging students to embrace Ubuntu by taking proactive steps to combat hunger and uplift their communities.
When asked how students can become involved in M-Powerment Care’s initiatives, Siyenga encouraged the UP community to take an active role in the organisation’s ongoing programmes. Beyond Mission Madiba, M-Powerment Care continues to work closely with SNAPP, with fresh produce harvested through the Roots & Rise Garden being donated to support students experiencing food insecurity. Students interested in making a difference can volunteer during community outreach projects and garden workdays, mentor learners through the Edu-Bridge programme, donate resources, or partner with the organisation on future initiatives. Those wishing to get involved can contact M-Powerment Care via info@mpowermentcare.org or through its official social media platforms.
As Mission Madiba came to a close, Siyenga left the UP community with a simple reminder: “Meaningful change happens when ordinary people choose to serve others.” Mission Madiba served as a reminder that Mandela’s legacy is not measured by 67 minutes alone, but by the compassion, collaboration, and commitment that continue long after the day has passed. Through the collective efforts of M-Powerment Care, UP student leaders, and volunteers, this year’s initiative proved that even the smallest act of service can plant the seeds for lasting change.
