Young people put active citizenship into action at Phumula Gardens

On 27 July 2026, the Nelson Mandela Foundation joined Her Power Her Voice at Phumula Gardens Secondary School for a Mandela Month commemoration centred on youth empowerment, service and active citizenship.

Learners, community members and partners came together to clean and revitalise the school, establish gardens, refurbish the kitchen and distribute donations to learners. These practical acts of service were complemented by conversations on leadership, volunteerism and the role young people can play in shaping their communities.

The day created an opportunity for learners to see active citizenship not as an abstract idea, but as something that begins with taking responsibility for the spaces and communities around them. By contributing their time, skills and energy, they demonstrated that change can begin with ordinary actions and collective effort.

The initiative reflected this year's Mandela Month theme, “It’s Still in Your Hands,” reminding us that Madiba’s legacy lives on through the choices we make to serve others, speak up and take action.

For the young people at Phumula Gardens, the message was clear: building stronger communities requires us to roll up our sleeves, participate and play our part.