South Africa teams mark Mandela Day 2015 by giving back
August 06, 2015
Each year Tata companies in South Africa mark the occasion of Nelson Mandela Day, joining in the worldwide commemoration of his contribution to society. This year, in the true spirit of being a good corporate citizen and giving back to society, which underpins the ethos of Tata across the globe, South Africa teams volunteered alongside SAME Foundation to complete the refurbishment of Tirisano Mmogo Primary School in Cosmo City.
The team also volunteered at Kwena Molapo Secondary School, in partnership with the Valued Citizens Initiative (VCI), an organisation that instills values in scholars through programmes that encourage a positive approach to life and career.
Nelson Mandela’s philosophy was very similar to JRD Tata’s, as is seen through the wise words of the two great men. “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” These words of Nelson Mandela echo those of JRD Tata, “No success or achievement in material terms is worthwhile unless it serves the needs or interests of the country and its people and is achieved by fair and honest means.”
The Nelson Mandela Foundation launched the global movement for good, in honour and celebration of the leader’s life and legacy. People worldwide celebrate his birthday by acting on the idea that each one of us has the power to change the world. The call is to devote 67 minutes of our time to a worthy cause – one minute for every year of the 67 years of Nelson Mandela’s public service. We are able to make a difference in someone else’s life – spreading Ubuntu, selflessness and love. Ubuntu is an African philosophy centred on the oneness of humanity, thus encouraging respect for diversity, promoting dignity, peace, good health and prosperity.
