Mandela Day is that time of the year where we reflect on one of the deepest forms of kindness we can engage in: charity. In a world dominated by hustle culture, where people are encouraged to make decisions by self-interest, charity remains a powerful way to align with the legacy of Nelson Mandela, whose life was a testament to service and compassion.

In my religion, one of the five pillars of Islam is Zakat (charity). This involves acts such as donating food and providing aid to the needy and caring for your family and community. Taking care of animals also garners great spiritual rewards in Islam.

My personal journey with charity began at age 16 when I found a box near our home. An abandoned cat had her kittens in that box. I wanted to take care of them all but we simply could not afford any pets. My family took them to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). It hurt, so when they went away, from that moment on, I promised I would never allow my heart to be softened by stray animals again.

But then Blackie, an older cat who was accidentally run over by his owners and thrown away, came into my life. Desperate, this beautiful animal needed a home, and my family took him in. We love him dearly. Despite his limp and hip problems from the accident, Blackie’s presence in our home has been a source of joy and a constant reminder of the rewards of opening your heart to others.

It is still possible to make a difference in the lives of others in small ways. If you aren’t already, try doing something charitable this Mandela Day. Even if you cannot offer material or monetary assistance, you could volunteer your time, energy, or labour to be of service. You won’t only be helping others, but you’ll be taking care of yourself too. According to Geng, Chen, Huang, Tan, Zhang, and Zhu (2021), engaging in charitable acts improves your own mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.

Good Samaritans share their thoughts:
I spoke to two strong women, Saneliswe Nkosi, who has a catering business and runs a feeding scheme with the profits, and Joyce Rakelwa, who owns a spa and cares for needy kids.

Sanelisiwe says that seeing the smiles of the people she feeds warms her heart:
“This feeding scheme has shown me that something as simple as a home-cooked meal can be meaningful. I am also a young mom and have decided to open my door to other new moms who have a shortage of baby supplies.”

Joyce dreams of opening a children’s home in the future. She loves kids:
“It breaks me when I see children who are not cared for well. I visit families in need and share whatever I have with them.”

Allowing yourself to support others will give you a profound sense of purpose and peace. Volunteer at an old-age home, share your food with the needy who have less than you or donate clothes and blankets (that are in good condition) to orphanages or shelters in need. Care for others, and goodness will follow you every step of the way.

How do you plan on paying it forward this Mandela Day and beyond? How do you think being charitable will change your life?