The girls, who are cared for by various organisations including Othandweni, Hope of the Hopeless and the Salvation Army, will be treated to a morning of movies and entertainment at Ster-Kinekor’s preview theatre at its head office in Sandton. This initiative is supported by Sisters We Can, an NGO that assists young girls by empowering them with relevant and important life skills.

A quote from the late Nelson Mandela; “Our children are the rock on which our future will be built, our greatest asset as a nation. They will be the leaders of our country, the creators of our national wealth who care for and protect our people,” (3 June 1995) sums up the importance of looking after the youth of this country, and preparing them for leadership roles in the future.

“The children will be treated to a wonderful morning of fun and festivities as we commemorate Madiba on his special day. They will be watching a movie as they enjoy popcorn and a drink – which, for many of them, will be their first big-screen movie experience,” says Geraldine Engelman, CSI manager of Ster-Kinekor Theatres.

“After watching the movie, each of the young girls will be provided with a blanket, food, and toiletries. The donations are an integral part of this initiative to ensure that the basic needs of the girls are taken care of, once they leave us.”

Mandela Day is an integral part of Ster-Kinekor’s CSI Vision Mission programme that aims to support disadvantaged learners across the country with eye health care and the provision of free pairs of spectacles, in partnership with various organisations including the Brien Holden Vision Institute and the Departments of Health, Education and Social Services.

“Making a real difference in the lives of children is what Nelson Mandela lived for and what Mandela Day has come to represent for many South Africans. As such, we are thrilled to be able to host these young girls to a morning at the movies, which we hope will be an unforgettable experience for them. We would like to thank all our partners in this project for coming to the party for Mandela Day,” states Kajal Singh, Human Resources Business Partner of Ster-Kinekor Entertainment.

Ster-Kinekor customers can also make a difference on Mandela Day – and every day – to assist Vision Mission in achieving its objectives. When booking online or at one of the self-service terminals in the cinema foyer, opt in to make a contribution – from an amount as little as R2.50 – to Vision Mission when prompted during the booking process.

“One click is all it takes to give someone less fortunate than yourself a clearer vision of their future – and every cent does make a real difference to someone’s life,” concludes Engelman.

For more information, visit www.sterkinekor.com. Alternatively, connect with them on Facebook or on Twitter.