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Agbiz Celebrates Mandela Day by Uplifting the Youth of Mamelodi

Agbiz Celebrates Mandela Day by Uplifting the Youth of Mamelodi

In commemoration of International Nelson Mandela Day, Agbiz partnered with SOS Children’s Village Mamelodi to contribute to the wellbeing and development of vulnerable children through an initiative aimed at providing practical support and inspiration. The visit forms part of Agbiz’s continued commitment to community upliftment and youth empowerment.

SOS Children’s Village Mamelodi provides family-based care to over 80 children across 15 homes, along with a Family Strengthening Programme that reaches more than 250 children in surrounding communities. Through its services, the organisation plays a critical role in offering care, stability, and opportunity to young people in need.

Agbiz made a corporate donation to support the organisation’s ongoing work. In addition, a number of Agbiz members joined in the effort by contributing branded supplies. The items, ranging from stationary, notebooks to backpacks, pens and 2 precision, drip irrigation kits were collected, and distributed to the children’s house during the visit on Friday, 18 July 2025.

“We want to extend a big thank you to all our members who kindly participated in the wonderful initiative to add smiles to the kids’ faces.”

Participating members included:

  •                   Nedbank
  •                   Afgri
  •                   OBARO
  •                   Grain SA
  •                   Netafim

“Mandela Day serves as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference,” said Annelien Collins, PA to the General Manager at Agbiz Grain. “For me, it's about showing up for others in meaningful ways, giving back where I can, and helping build the kind of world Madiba dreamed of one rooted in dignity, compassion, and hope.”

Agbiz CEO Theo Boshoff added: “Whilst it feels good to interact and reach out, we don’t see this as charity. This is an investment into our youth and we hope to make a small contribution towards them finally pursuing their dreams in life.”

“It’s so important to give back to the community, and we should all be doing it more often,” said Liezl Esterhuizen, Agbiz Member Liaison and Marketing Manager. “Nelson Mandela Day is about public service, human rights, and social justice. It reminds us to look out for each other and do the right thing.”

The success of this initiative highlights the importance of collaboration between business and community. Agbiz would like to thank Mandy Spies, Victor Mbinga, and the full team at SOS Children’s Village Mamelodi for their ongoing dedication and for warmly hosting the Agbiz delegation.

“On Mandela Day, 18 July 2025, we remember that change begins with how we care for our children. By giving them love, safety, and belonging, we honour Madiba’s dream of a just and compassionate world. Thank you, Agbiz, for the generous support we’re receiving today. It reminds us that together, we can keep Madiba’s legacy alive in every child’s smile,” Mandy Spies – Team Leader Corporate Services, SOS Children’s Villages in South Africa.

This initiative reflects the shared belief that creating long-term impact begins with small, with intentional steps rooted in compassion, dignity, and the spirit of Ubuntu.

By Temba Msiza, Digital Communications Manager, Agbiz