The initiative held in the spirit of Mandela Day that was commemorated on Friday, 18 July, is driven by the Airports Company South Africa’s Women’s Volunteer Programme and forms part of its socio-economic development (SED) programme.

The parties donated food, toys and erected a rubber-tyre vegetable garden. Activities included play time and interaction with the children, storytelling, art and crafts. The day ended with a lunch braai for the learners and all invited guests.

Doug Whitehead is located in Bez Valley on the outskirts of the Johannesburg CBD and provides facilities for children, many of whom have severe intellectual disabilities. The learners come from impoverished areas within Johannesburg central including Berea, Hillbrow, Yeoville and the CBD.

Acsa spokesperson Unathi Batyashe-Fillis, said that she is humbled by the selflessness and spirit of volunteerism that the company’s women employees have demonstrated. “It is important that as we give back, we ensure that our initiatives are sustainable and have long-term viability. The viability of our business is tied to the well-being of the communities within which we operate and it is gratifying to see employees embracing the spirit of volunteerism in their stride as they seek to alleviate the living conditions of those who are less fortunate.”

Airports Company South Africa will continue with the Mandela Month activations as a donation of a mobile laboratory and desktops for the school administration will be done at JB Matabane on Friday, 25 July. A non-paying fee school, JB Matabane is located in Ivory Park, Thembisa and caters for 1 311 learners.