Purpose, joy, and a commitment to support the social and mental well-being of children at our schools. This was the powerful theme behind Red Rocket’s mission on Mandela Day as Red Rocket proudly channeled the spirit of the legendary Madiba, carrying out one of the causes closest to his heart – children’s welfare.
Guided by his enduring words, “Children are our greatest treasure. They are our future,” Red Rocket once again answered the call to be of service to others. This year, we partnered with Community Keepers, an organisation that has held on to these words since its establishment in 2009. Describing many children’s learning experiences as being like “trying to do a 7 times table or read a book on a rollercoaster,” Community Keepers has been tirelessly working to bring joy back into education, transforming schools into safe, supportive spaces for growth and development.
Drawing on the values of partnership, trust, integrity, and professionalism, the organisation has been an inspiration, galvanising communities to be agents of change to help children reach their full potential in places of learning.
Red Rocket, itself no stranger to giving and upholding Madiba’s legacy, invoked the Red Rocket Cares mantra through Rocketeers who brought with them the spirit of Ubuntu, dressed in the vibrant colours of the South African flag. They brought the energy and the iconic Madiba Jive to life in a joyful 67-minute celebration with beats from Cape Town Dj Tiny T. Driving the colourful festivities was Sherlin Barends, Kfm Mornings radio host and proud Community Keepers patron, who drove home the message both as a mother and a passionate advocate for children’s education and community service.
Red Rocket made a R67, 000 donation to support Community Keepers’ programmes, with a symbolic cheque presented by Finance Director Jean Wessels. But the spirit of giving didn’t stop there – Rocketeers also contributed more than R8,000 after each pledging R67 or more of their own money towards the cause.
This initiative is in line with Red Rocket’s tireless mission to support initiatives meant to uplift communities. Last year, the Cheslin Kolbe Foundation was one of the proud recipients of our Mandela Day charitable works. Supporting the Springbok star and his wife Layla, Red Rocket took the time to inspire children from their former primary school in Kraaifontein. The foundation also nominated humanitarian organisation, Gift of the Givers, to receive Red Rocket’s R67,000 donation, supporting its essential relief programmes in flood-affected communities.
Red Rocket was also proud to partner with Ladles of Love by creating colourful artworks for Early Childhood Development centres, and highlighted the vital work of the SA Guide-Dogs Association in providing the training of guide and service dogs for blind, vision-impaired, and disabled people across South Africa.
As we continue to honour Mandela, Red Rocket remains committed to using the day as a powerful force for good, and empowering communities through giving (and dancing) to the inspiring tune of his hope for humanity.
