Old Mutual Joins Community Stakeholders to Honour Mandela Day Through Service to Senior Citizens and Persons Living with Disabilities

The initiative, coordinated by Xobo Management Services in partnership with the Gugulethu Sports Council and other community stakeholders, took place on 17 and 18 July 2026. It brought together volunteers, community members and organisations committed to improving the wellbeing and quality of life of some of the community's most vulnerable groups.

The programme recognised the important role that senior citizens and persons living with disabilities play within society by creating opportunities for social interaction, recreation and community participation.

"Through this Mandela Day initiative, we celebrated senior citizens and persons living with disabilities while creating opportunities for social engagement and community participation. The support we received from our partners demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations work together towards a common purpose. We are grateful to everyone who contributed their time, resources and expertise to making the initiative a success," said Shaun Borotho, Project Manager at Xobo Management Services.

The first day of the programme promoted active ageing and inclusion through a variety of sporting and recreational activities, including athletics, netball and other adapted sporting codes hosted at the NY49 Sports Field in Gugulethu. The activities encouraged participants to remain active while fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit.

On the second day, volunteers dedicated more than 67 minutes of service at the Vukuhambe Disability Centre, undertaking painting, gardening, clean-up activities and general facility improvements to create a more welcoming, accessible and dignified environment for beneficiaries.

The initiative was made possible through the collective efforts of community organisations, government departments and private-sector partners, demonstrating the power of collaboration in driving meaningful and lasting social impact.

As part of its contribution, Old Mutual engaged with community members through financial education initiatives while supporting broader efforts to promote dignity, inclusion and improved wellbeing for vulnerable groups.

"Mandela Day reminds us that lasting change is achieved when communities, businesses and organisations work together in service of others. We are proud to have partnered with community stakeholders on this initiative, which honoured Madiba's legacy by making a meaningful difference in the lives of senior citizens and persons living with disabilities. Through initiatives like these, we continue to strengthen our commitment to building resilient, inclusive and financially empowered communities," said Kanyiso Mnyaka, Regional Sales Leader: Western Cape at Old Mutual.

The Mandela Day initiative reflects Old Mutual's ongoing commitment to creating positive social impact through partnerships that empower communities, promote inclusion and uphold the dignity of every South African.