Each year on July 18, people around the world come together to celebrate Mandela Day, a tribute to the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela. More than just a commemoration, this day serves as a global call to action—encouraging individuals, communities, and organisations to reflect on Mandela’s values and commit to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

At Intertek, our teams across South Africa embraced this call with heartfelt initiatives aimed at giving back to their communities.

Greenstone Office: Saving Lives and Spreading Compassion

Our Greenstone colleagues led two impactful projects:

Blood Drive with SANBS: In partnership with the South African National Blood Service, a mobile donation unit was set up in our office park. With posters and outreach drawing attention, 27 individuals—including neighbouring office park staff—donated blood. Each donation has the potential to save up to three lives, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who took part in this life-saving initiative.

Food and Clothing Drive for Little Eden: Over three weeks, colleagues contributed personal donations and Intertek supplemented with groceries. All items were delivered on Mandela Day to Little Eden, a non-profit organisation providing lifelong care for 300 individuals with profound intellectual and physical disabilities. Our team was moved by the experience of visiting the home, gaining valuable insight into the critical support such organisations provide.

Restoring Homes and Restoring Hope

In Durban, colleagues once again partnered with St Monica’s Children’s Home, a safe haven for vulnerable and orphaned children.

Facility Improvements: Building on last year’s efforts, 38 Intertek volunteers painted and refreshed the remaining three of the six family-style cottages that house children and their caregivers.

Wish List Fulfilled: The team also donated essential items, including toiletries, two TVs, two DVD players, six clock radios, and six ironing boards—directly addressing the needs identified by the home.

The children’s joy and the gratitude of the staff made every moment of hard work worthwhile. Our Durban team has a proud tradition of community engagement, and this year marked over a decade of Mandela Day commitment.

As Nelson Mandela once said, “There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to help others without expecting anything in return.” We are proud of our colleagues across South Africa for living this principle and making a meaningful difference.