I am Khululekile Ndawonde Welcome to my blog, where I reflect on my Mandela day experience as a Community Engagement Intern at University of Johannesburg . In this space, I share how I contributed to meaningful service at Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital through real action, hard work, and purpose. From cleaning solar panels to painting road signs, I document how we honoured Madiba’s legacy. I also reflect on what I’ve learned about public service, teamwork, and the powerful role of community engagement in shaping both personal growth and professional values in Public Relations.

 More Than 67 Minutes: My Mandela Day at Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital.

How a day of cleaning solar panels and painting road signs transformed into a moment of purpose

Mandela Day is more than just a date; it is a national call to action. Every year on July 18, this day honours Nelson Mandela's life and legacy by encouraging people all across the world to spend 67 minutes doing good for others. These 67 minutes remember Madiba's 67 years of battling for social justice, freedom, and human rights. However, Mandela Day is more than just minutes; it is about impact. It's about showing up, putting in the effort, and remembering that we all have a chance to transform someone's life, even if only for a day. As a Community Engagement Intern at the University of Johannesburg, I had the privilege of spending Mandela Day at Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital, where I supported a cause that represented Madiba's important principles of care, compassion and community.

What We Did: Real Work, Real Impact

Our day began early. I worked with the UJ Community Engagement team to clean over 700 solar panels on the hospital grounds. These solar panels are an essential component of the hospital's sustainable energy system, and keeping them clean ensures maximum effectiveness. It was not easy; it needed a lot of physical effort, but knowing that our efforts were going to power a hospital that serves sick children made it all meaningful.

Each solar panel cleaned was a step towards a brighter, better future.

After finishing the solar panels, we painted the hospital's road signs and parking spaces. These small but important actions helped the order, safety, and colour of the outdoor places that children, staff, and families use on a regular basis.

It may seem simple, but these signs make a big difference for everyone moving through the hospital.

Why Mandela Day Matters Especially in My Role

As an intern in the Community Engagement unit, Mandela Day is more than just a day of service; it reflects the essence of my profession. It is about connecting people to their purpose, meeting real-world needs in our community, and putting principles into action. Nelson Mandela felt that serving others is the price we pay for our time on Earth. I witness that mentality every day at my internship, but Mandela Day increased it through sweat, effort, and dedication.

What I Learnt from The Experience

Mandela Day 2025 taught me lessons that extend beyond my job description

Leadership is shown through actions instead of words. Even small activities completed with affection can have an important effect. Community service involves both heart and hands. Being there and eager to assist in whatever way is enough. True service leaves you feeling changed. You give to others while also developing yourself.

Living the Legacy 

Mandela Day at Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital was both inspiring and empowering. As a UJ Community Engagement Intern, I felt proud to represent our university and be a part of something truly meaningful. Mandela Day taught me that service is not one-time. It's a daily commitment, a lifestyle and a means of honouring the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to helping others.

We didn't just work; we lived the values that Madiba stood for.