World celebrates Mandela day

As the world gives its 67 minutes to celebrate Mandela Day, many individuals and organizations are eager to make a positive impact in their communities. However, as Joanne van der Walt, Programme Manager at Sage, points out, good intentions are not always enough without a well-thought-out plan. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Joanne shared valuable insights on what not to do if you truly want to make a difference. Joanne emphasizes the importance of ensuring that actions taken on Mandela Day have a lasting impact beyond just one day. She mentions that at Sage Foundation for Africa, they have a team of 100 volunteers working on various projects to create meaningful change. Joanne stresses the significance of choosing the right not-for-profit partner that aligns with the organization's core values and business focus. For example, if a company specializes in technology, it would be more beneficial to support a charity that helps young people develop skills in that field. One key point highlighted by Joanne is the need for proper planning and consultation before embarking on any charitable project. For instance, if a group plans to create a food garden for a not-for-profit, they should first consult with local experts to determine the best crops to plant and understand the needs of the organization. Joanne cautions against assuming what is best for a charity and emphasizes the importance of involving them in the decision-making process. Another crucial aspect discussed is the idea of leaving a lasting legacy. Joanne advises against 'one-hit wonders' where volunteers simply show up, perform a quick task, and leave without considering the long-term impact. She encourages continuous engagement with not-for-profits and building on previous efforts to sustain positive changes in the community. In terms of finding reputable not-for-profits to partner with, Joanne suggests consulting organizations like the Charity's Aid Foundation in South Africa or NGO PULS. These platforms can provide information on which charities are in need of support and help companies make informed decisions about their corporate social responsibility initiatives. Overall, Joanne emphasizes that Mandela Day should not be treated as a mere PR exercise or a one-time event for organizations to showcase their charitable efforts. Instead, it should be about fostering genuine relationships with communities, promoting long-term sustainability, and encouraging individuals to actively participate in making a difference beyond just one day of service. In conclusion, Joanne's insights serve as a valuable guide for companies and individuals looking to engage in impactful corporate social responsibility initiatives. By following her advice and avoiding common pitfalls, organizations can truly make a difference in the lives of others and contribute to building a better society.