In the spirit of Madiba's unwavering dedication to serving others, the Rhodes University Library is proud to share a heartwarming initiative undertaken by our librarians to celebrate Nelson Mandela Day! Led by the ever-inspiring Mam Jabu Nene, a team of librarians came together under the Nelson Mandela International Day 2024 theme "Combating Poverty and Inequality is in Our Hands."
On 18 July 2024, the library buzzed with activity as it transformed into a kitchen filled with the aroma of delicious food. With love and care, they prepared a nourishing soup specifically for the community in need. Venturing out to Church Square, a central hub in Makhanda, the librarians dished out the steaming soup to street children, sisters, and brothers facing food insecurity.
This act of kindness transcended a simple meal. It was a gesture of empathy, a moment of connection, and a testament to the librarians' commitment to serving the broader community. The smiles and grateful eyes of those who received the soup spoke volumes about the positive impact this initiative had.
Mam Jabu Nene, the driving force behind this project, shared her thoughts: "We at the Rhodes University Library believe that knowledge nourishes the mind, but sometimes, a warm meal can nourish the soul just as well. In celebration of Mandela Day, we wanted to share a small token of our care and show our community that they are not forgotten, echoing Nelson Mandela's lifelong commitment to service."
The library is committed to continuing such initiatives and fostering a spirit of social responsibility. We believe that libraries are not just repositories of books, but also centers of compassion and community engagement. This act of kindness by our librarians serves as a shining example of that spirit.
Inspired by this story? We encourage you to get involved! There are many local organizations working to address food insecurity in Makhanda. Consider volunteering your time or donating to a cause you care about. Together, we can make a difference!