Give the gift of development – donate a book on Mandela Day
This Mandela Day, Anglo American is putting a focus on education and particularly the value of reading. Reading has many benefits especially for the young mind; ranging from improved self-confidence to better academic performance and heightened social skills.
Mandela Day presents an opportune time for us to play a part in ECD – Early Childhood Development. Nelson Mandela highly valued the role reading plays in shaping young lives, and himself was a prolific reader, even during incarceration. In support of ECD centres, we are running a book drive this Mandela Day and encourage all Anglo American and De Beers employees to bring in books suitable for ages 2-18, but especially those suited to younger children.
By bringing in books, old or new, you can build into a critical stage of their development and help them become their best selves. From Monday 18 July to Thursday 21 July, bring your books to the donation box located in the Vuka Café area. You will later h ave the opportunity to sign an oversized pledge book, where you can make a written commitment to playing your part in educating young children in our nation.
The books collected will be displayed at the Anglo American South African (AASA) Education Programme Phase Two launch taking place on Friday, 22 July. These books will then be distributed to the AASA Education Programme ECD sites in our host communities. Look out for details on how to join the virtual launch of the AASA Education Programme.
“The system of apartheid robbed many children of their right to a decent education and of the joy of reading. This joy is one that I have treasured all my life, and it is one I wish for all South Africans.”
-Nelson Mandela