Historic Nelson Mandela Day livestream show from Robben Island to raise funds for COVID-19 relief

In less than 24 hours, the world will once again come together to celebrate Nelson Mandela Day, an annual international day dedicated to honoring South Africa's first democratically elected president, the late Nelson Mandela. This day holds immense significance as people across the globe dedicate 67 minutes to a charitable cause, symbolizing each year Mandela dedicated to serving his country. South African DJ and producer, Ashli Rappala, popularly known as Shimza, is set to make history by becoming the first artist to livestream a performance from the iconic Robben Island on Nelson Mandela Day. Shimza's initiative is part of a drive to raise funds for individuals adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as for the preservation of Robben Island itself. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Shimza shed light on the significance of this unique endeavor. Robben Island holds a special place in South Africa's history, serving as a poignant reminder of the country's journey towards democracy. As a figure with influence, Shimza views this performance as an opportunity to educate and inspire the youth about their heritage. The decision to host the event on Nelson Mandela Day was a natural choice for Shimza, who aims to leverage his platform to raise funds for families affected by the pandemic and support the island's conservation. This initiative aligns with Shimza's previous philanthropic work, centered on giving back to communities in need. Partnering with Siya Kolisi, the captain of South Africa's national rugby team, Shimza has set ambitious goals for the fundraising efforts. While the initiative does not have a specific monetary target, the focus remains on maximizing contributions to assist those in need. Funds raised will be channeled through Shimza's foundation, SHIMUZIC, as well as the Siya Kolisi Foundation, with a portion directed towards supporting the operational needs of Robben Island, which has been significantly impacted by the decline in visitor numbers due to the pandemic. To facilitate donations, Shimza has provided a dedicated link on his social media platforms, allowing supporters to contribute towards the cause. Additionally, during the livestream performance, viewers will have the opportunity to donate through a designated webpage or a QR code displayed on the screen. By encouraging widespread participation, Shimza hopes to make a meaningful impact on those grappling with the challenges brought about by the current global crisis. Reflecting on the future of the entertainment industry amidst the ongoing pandemic, Shimza acknowledges the profound impact felt by artists and performers who rely on live events for their livelihood. In response to these challenges, Shimza emphasizes the importance of embracing innovation and adapting to the evolving landscape. Through initiatives like the lockdown house party and other digital ventures, Shimza aims to create engaging content that resonates with audiences, even in times when physical gatherings are restricted. As Shimza prepares to make history with his Robben Island livestream performance on Nelson Mandela Day, the event stands as a testament to the power of music and philanthropy in uniting communities and supporting those in need during challenging times.