The theme for Mandela Day 2025 was #GETINVOLVED — and our Safripolites truly lived up to it, pouring their hearts into making a real difference. This year, we had the privilege of visiting Letsoho Le None (LLN) Centre for the Elderly, bringing not only donations, but also joy, dignity, and love to its cherished members.
We were introduced to LLN through LUSA Community Chest, who help manage the centre. When we arrived, we quickly learned about their many challenges — from food shortages and safety concerns to the need for a working stove for daily meals and the sustainability of their sewing activities that help fund the centre.
Determined to make an impact, we set out to transform their space into one that securely provides warmth and comfort. The once deteriorating building was retiled and freshly painted. The kitchen was completely rebuilt, and a new palisade fence was installed to improve security where it was most needed. Alongside these bigger changes, countless smaller touches were added to restore pride and comfort in their surroundings.
Our Safripolites also spent July collecting food, sewing accessories, and hygiene products for LLN. To support their sewing projects, Safripol contributed a generous R20 000 cash donation for new sewing machines, ensuring their craft — and their income — can continue.
But Mandela Day was never just about the projects. It was about the people. We were deeply moved by the warmth, laughter, and gratitude we received from the elderly residents. Many shared stories that brought us full circle — tales of husbands, brothers, and family members who had worked at Safripol since its earliest days in the 1970s. It was a day filled with connection, honour, and heartfelt appreciation.
Those who came before us have built the foundations we stand on today. To give back, to acknowledge, and to show them that they are remembered — that is a small act with a boundless impact. This Mandela Day reminded us that love and respect for our elders is not just a gesture, but a responsibility we carry with pride.
A very special thank you to:
- BM Construction who met our tight deadline of 3 weeks to implement all renovations
- Bidvest employees who assisted with a thorough clean of the space after renovations
- Charitoo for delivering a warm, hearty, and ever so delicious meal to the members at LLN on the day
- LUSA for overseeing the project management and ensuring safety compliance
- Feltex, our sister company, for the donation of carpets, Fire extinguishers, a first Aid Kit and sewing accessories & Unitrans for assisting with logistics thereof from KZN to FS
- A special anonymous Safripolunicorn
who gave a large bag full of all kinds of wool, crochet hooks and other sewing accessories that will be utilised in crocheting classes to young girls going forward. - And a special anonymous Safripol goldfish
who donated an overlocker to the centre.
To every person and company that partnered with us in making our 2025 Mandela Day initiative a beautiful success …THANK YOU!!! This wouldn’t have been possible without you.
Footage of the event can be viewed on the following link: Mandela Day Pictures