South Africans support migrant women on International Mandela Day
To honour International Nelson Mandela Day on July 18th the South African Embassy in Athens, joined by Aspen pharmacare and friends of South Africa, will contribute 67 minutes of volunteer service to “Melissa Network”, a Non-profit organisation which promotes the empowerment of migrant women in order to support themselves and other people in need.
Melissa’s aim is to promote positive role models and to make the voices of migrant women heard and acknowledged, based on the belief that society is not a set of isolated cells but a beehive of communication and exchange. Volunteers will have the opportunity to join the following groups and assist with activities such as:
- jewelry, knitting & crochet
- handing out of basil plants to Melissa neigbourhood
- preparing packages for migrant women
Nelson Mandela’s birthday, celebrated on 18 July, was declared by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) as Nelson Mandela International Day in 2010. The celebration of this international day recognizes and gives credence to the former President’s commitment to human rights, conflict resolution and reconciliation. It is more than a celebration of Madiba’s life and legacy. It is a call, for the next generation to take on the burden of leadership in addressing the world’s social injustices when he said “it is in your hands now”. Positive change begins with small actions. As each person acts, they fuel momentum toward positive change, raising awareness and expanding the reach of Mr Mandela’s values – fighting injustice, helping people in need and practicing reconciliation.
On July 18 every year, people are encouraged to volunteer at least 67 minutes of their time in service to their communities. Sixty-seven minutes is a symbolic number, representing the number of years Mr Mandela was actively involved in the struggle against all forms of oppression.
If you wish to join the Athens activities on July 18, call the South African Embassy at 210-6178044 (Ms. Kapoutsis, e-mail: Kapoutsisd@dirco.gov.za.) The Mandela Day delegation will be visiting Melissa Network premises on 18 Feron Street, Victoria Square, 104 34, Athens at 11:00 am.
SOURCE: Embassy of South Africa
