A suburb does not fall apart overnight. It slips slowly, while everyone waits for somebody else to fix it.
A group of residents and business owners refused to wait. They set up a volunteer run non profit, put daily cleaning teams on the length from Rudd Road to the M1 and brought in security. Mandela Day is when the rest of us lend a hand.
“It is that special time again to celebrate Madiba’s legacy,” says Mark Pencharz, Acting chair of the Corlett Drive Improvement Precinct. “Let us all take responsibility and make our precinct a place we can be proud of. Little steps in the right direction lead to focused outcomes.”
919FM will broadcast live through the morning, so expect music and a fair amount of noise alongside the hard graft. CDIP hopes this is the first of many days like it.
Starbucks is backing the morning with reusable cups. Clearing litter is one half of the job. Not creating it in the first place is the other.
“Our white reusable cups are one way we play our part in creating a better environment,” says Daniela Jordaan, Marketing Co-Ordinator at Starbucks South Africa. “Mandela Day reminds us that meaningful change starts with simple acts of service. Whether it is choosing to reuse a cup or giving 67 minutes to your neighbourhood, every action counts. We are proud to support the Corlett Drive Improvement Precinct as they work to create a cleaner, safer and more welcoming place. Small actions can have a lasting impact.”
Sixty seven minutes is what Madiba asked for. This is one way to spend them, and you can see the result before you go home.
Join in:
Saturday 18 July 2026, 9am
Corlett Drive, outside McCarthy
No booking and no cost. Bring gloves and bin bags if you have them.
Everyone welcome, children included.