Scramble for scarfs made in the name of global leadership icon Nelson Mandela ensues at distribution point in Johannesburg as winter bites

By Edward Tsumele, CITYLIFE/ARTS Editor

Nelson Mandela the late former President of South Africa and global leadership icon was on Tuesday, July 18, 2023,   his birthday, celebrated for his insightful leadership. His name was commemorated in various ways by both individuals and organisations around South Africa and globally. Some organisations used the occasion to raise money for charity inspired by his legacy.

 However  67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela, founded by philanthropist Carolyn Steyn marked his birthday by distributing scarfs at locations around the country to those less privileged. I attended one such event at Constitution Hill where volunteers from the organisation hung scarfs on walls, trees and fences where members of the public picked up their choices of the scarfs.

Strategically positioned for ease access in close proximity to marginalised communities, for example those living in overcrowded Hillbrow, the scarfs were snatched up by the public as soon as they were hung as people regard these scarfs as useful to protect themselves from the elements during this cold winter.

These scarfs created with love by individuals, schools and even prisoners from around the country, have become so popular that no sooner were they laid out and hung than they vanished. The oragnisers however had to restrain some people from taking more than one so that more people could benefit from them. This is how useful these scarfs have become to many an underprivileged person during this time of the year. In fact 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela, since it was started has grown in stature and has touched the hearts of many who contribute their knitting skills for a good cause anually.