MAN honours Mandela Day with local orphanage donation

July 20, 2023

Mandela Day, celebrated annually on Nelson Mandela’s birthday, 18 July, honours the legacy of Madiba, a global icon renowned for his commitment to social justice and equality. On this day in particular, companies, individuals, and groups are urged to commit 67 minutes of their time – representing the 67 years that Mandela battled for freedom – to deeds of kindness and making a difference.

In line with this spirit, truck and bus manufacturer MAN Automotive (South Africa) rose to the challenge, extending its corporate social responsibility initiatives to the nearby community of Tembisa in Gauteng. This township is home to a vibrant and diverse community, including some of the MAN ambassadors who played a vital role in identifying the orphanage as a worthy recipient of the company’s goodwill.

Early in the morning, MAN representatives loaded cars and bakkies with provisions such as essential food supplies, scarves, and beanies. The team – led by MAN Automotive MD Jan Aichinger, human resources and transformation director Xoli Sarah Luthuli, and MAN ambassadors – embarked on the short journey from the company’s bus manufacturing plant in Clayville, Olifantsfontein to the Inkateko Project Orphanage Home in Tembisa.

Embodying the values of social responsibility, the MAN team engaged with orphanage staff while the children were at school, spending quality time listening to their stories, sharing experiences, and offering encouragement.

The Inkateko orphanage currently looks after 45 children between the ages of three and 16, and provides care packages to some of the community’s single parents who are in need of assistance.

According to Aichinger, the provision of essential supplies, scarves, and beanies not only addresses the immediate need of food and clothing but also aims to instil hope and pride.

“We wanted to let the children know they are supported and hopefully inspire the young residents of the orphanage. Supporting initiatives like this on Mandela Day not only allows us to honour the remarkable legacy of Nelson Mandela but also reaffirms our commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of the communities in which MAN Automotive SA operates,” he says.

“It is a privilege to contribute to the betterment of our community and inspire others to join us in creating positive change,” he continues.

The orphanage visit proved to be a significant milestone for both the truck and bus manufacturer and the local community. The initiative demonstrated MAN’s commitment to giving back to society, fostering a culture of empathy and compassion among its employees and stakeholders. By engaging directly with the Tembisa township and its residents, the MAN ambassadors showcased the transformative power of collective action.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to MAN for their generous donation,” said Flora Sihlangu, chairperson of the Inkateko Project Orphanage Home.

“Their support means a great deal to us and will undoubtedly bring joy to the children in our care,” added Busiswe Machava, the orphanage’s secretary.

MAN’s commitment to social responsibility extended far beyond this single act of generosity, as the truck and bus manufacturer pledged ongoing support to the orphanage and the Tembisa community, ensuring a sustained positive impact for years to come.