South Africa marked 30 years of democracy this year, in a new chapter beginning with the formation of a Government of National Unity. As we celebrate Mandela Day, this development is a positive step towards Mandela’s original vision of a prosperous future for all in our beautiful and diverse country.

In the spirit of Ubuntu, the Val de Vie Foundation planned a community outreach trip to Hope Through Action, one of the Val de Vie Foundation’s primary beneficiaries, to dedicate 67 minutes to making a difference in a day of unity and service.

Volunteer residents from Val de Vie Estate, Brenthurst Wealth, and Val de Vie Marketing staff, led by the @HomeLearning Yeboneers, engaged with 60 children from local crèches in activities ranging from colouring and Lego-building to egg-and-spoon and sack races. The day was filled with laughter and learning, with many volunteers eager to return next year.

Some of the volunteers were able to dedicate their time to preparing nutritious soup using fresh organic vegetables from the Val de Vie Wellness Farm. These hearty soup meals were distributed to 150 local vulnerable families, providing them with warm, nutritious soup during the cold winter weather.

The Val de Vie Foundation expresses our deep gratitude to all the volunteers who united at the Franschhoek Valley Community Sport Centre on this cold and rainy winter’s day, to make a difference in our wonderful Paarl-Franschhoek community. These efforts highlight the ongoing journey towards Madiba’s dream of a united and prosperous South Africa.