Expression of engagement and solidarity in Gelvandale and Helenvale
Facilitated by the Engagement Office, the programme from 16 to 18 July emphasised the University's commitment to co-creating spaces of dignity, inclusion, and hope, affirming its role as a civic university that learns with and from society.
This year’s Mandela Week was marked by overwhelming staff support from across faculties and PASS departments, all converging around a shared commitment to the Hostel of Hope as a living place and space of engagement.
As one of the pilot sites for the Hubs of Convergence (HoC), the Hostel reflects a new paradigm of integrated university-community collaboration, where engagement is not a once-off act of charity, but a sustained, reciprocal process of social transformation.
Day 1: Inclusion and wellness at Helenvale Resource Centre
The programme opened with a dedicated day for persons with disabilities. In partnership with community organisations, University departments, including Social Development Professions. as well as the Department of Sport and Recreation, facilitated inclusive wellness activities, movement sessions, and mental health dialogues.
Helenvale Clinic offered health education and screenings, while the Mobile Law Clinic created accessible spaces for legal support particularly around issues of vulnerability and protection.
Day 2: Elder Engagement at the Hostel of Hope
Elderly members of the community were honoured with a day of care, conversation, and companionship.
University staff and students from Social Development Professions, and the Mobile Law Clinic, as well as the Department of Sport and Recreation joined local partners in offering wellness services, including sessions on nutrition, legal rights, and personal well-being.
The spirit of engagement was evident in every interaction, each conversation contributing to a deeper understanding of the needs, aspirations, and wisdom of the older generation.
Day 3: International Mandela Day, a celebration of converged action
18 July 2025 commemorated Madiba’s legacy with a powerful display of community-university solidarity.
A formal programme brought together voices from the University and surrounding community, grounding the day in reflection and shared purpose.
Engagement took many forms: staff and students from the Pharmacy and Social Development Professions, CRISHET, the Law Clinic, the SA Cultural Observatory and Occupational Health painted and restored the hostel's dining space, prepared student dormitories, cultivated the garden, and offered vital services, such as medical and legal consultations.
Over 650 essential items, ranging from toiletries and food to cleaning materials were donated for students and neighbouring schools.
These gifts, however, were not the heart of the day. What stood out was the learning that emerged from being in community: the stories shared, the partnerships renewed, and the seeds of long-term connection planted.
A living example of what a university can be
Mandela Week 2025 affirmed that engagement is not something the University does to communities but with them.
Through the Hostel of Hope and the broader Gelvandale-Helenvale partnership, Mandela University is deepening its commitment to reimagining the University as a site of convergence, where teaching, learning, and research are enriched through genuine relationships of mutual respect, listening, and action.
As one of the pilot community HoC site’s in the Metro, the Hostel of Hope will remain a key partner in shaping a university that responds with care, relevance, and humility. A warm appreciation is extended its gratitude to all staff, students, and community collaborators who contributed to this important work.