Nelson Mandela’s dreams for a hopeful South Africa lives on in Grade 7’s who participated in Mandela Day 2024 celebrations at Ellis Park Stadium. CityKidz and Lego provided the building blocks for the learners to construct their future. With hundreds of Lego blocks and teeny tiny figures and accessories, the teams of learners assisted by SafeStudy facilitators built their dreams for the future.
Sweetcrafters ice-cream parlours want to enliven the lakesides of Joburg. Visits to these cerise-pink buildings will include relaxation on the roof gardens and offset the carbon pollution used by visitors’ cars. Team Mini-Builders’ seaside resort had tiny holidaymakers braaing T-bone steaks while swimmers bobbed about in a bright blue Lego ocean. In the shadow of the Ellis Park Emirates Stadium, Team SoccerFan constructed their stadium which included tiered seating and a substitutes’ bench. Netball facilities, swimming pools and other community facilities were constructed by various teams who want to provide opportunities for all in Joburg.
Team Bonolo felt concern about the dire state of parks in Joburg. “We need more parks especially in the poorer areas. Our park has a restaurant, different play areas, a giant chessboard, pools for children and adults,” said Thandoluhle. Next door, CNU Rides showcased a rollercoaster park with boat rides and two imposing hot air balloons, ready for take-off. Impresarios, MosKan Entertainment, built an outdoor stage for a hard metal band complete with electric guitars.
The Stars Community Centre showed care for the physical and mental health of vulnerable communities. A pool and soccer field catered for exercise while a busker played music for visitors eating lunch. Team NoNaNi’s veterinarian surgery and shelter featured cats, dogs with two parrots that could almost be heard squawking. A frog sat quietly observing all. An intricately built orphanage with a stylish café on the second floor will not only be a home for orphaned children but also provide skills and training. Housing for the needy was provided by Team Keith.
Learners said: ‘It was creative. I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride seeing our ideas come to life. I felt I was in my own little world. Measuring and calculating, we feel like architects. I enjoyed the co-operation and the feeling of teamwork and bonding as a group. It was easier than I thought.”
Mam Sharon commented, ‘CityKidz learners were the rock stars of the day.’ The day was capped by a delicious lunch provided by CityKidz ( Lisa’s Snack Shack) and Portuguese tarts donated by the Troyeville Hotel. (Thanks to Enzo and Mr Mathekga for Ubering to school to collect the children's meals and Lisa for saving the day by feeding our Grade7’s)
