What started as a Mandela Day initiative between Link FM and Jam Clothing turned into something truly special, thanks to the incredible spirit of community that came to life at Beacon Bay Retail Park (BB Retail).
On Friday morning, 14 children from Fig Tree Independent School, supported by the Greensleeves Children’s Trust, arrived at the Jam Clothing store for a morning of shopping and fun.
Each child received a shopping voucher from Jam Clothing, giving them the chance to choose something new for themselves – a small but powerful moment of joy and dignity.
Link FM, which partnered with Jam Clothing for the day, reached out the day before to the centre’s manager, Ursula Pape, to let her know they would be visiting with the group.
A simple heads-up turned into an outpouring of kindness from the centre’s tenants, who embraced the spirit of Mandela Day and rallied together to spoil the children beyond expectation.
Whitehouse gifted each child with facecloths and treats, while Ackermans prepared party boxes. Mambo’s, Execuspecs, Builders Warehouse, FNB, MTN (with Huawei), and Burger King all contributed gifts.
Edees Hair and Beauty treated the children to haircuts and hair accessories. Spur hosted everyone for lunch, and dessert followed with ice creams at Wimpy.
One moment that captured hearts was when centre management stepped in to sponsor a new pair of ballet pumps for one of the girls, an aspiring young dancer.
BB Retails’ Pape said: “The spirit of Mandela Day has always been about swift, meaningful action, about seeing a need and responding to it immediately. Our tenants’ quick mobilisation demonstrates the strong sense of community that exists within Beacon Bay Retail Park.
“We believe shopping centres should be more than just retail spaces; they should be community hubs that actively contribute to local wellbeing.
“We’re currently exploring regular partnerships with local organisations to create a sustained positive impact throughout the year. What truly touched our hearts was witnessing the joy and excitement on the children’s faces. It wasn’t just about the gifts – it was about making them feel special and valued.
“Shopping centres like Beacon Bay Retail Park have a unique position in the community – we’re where people gather, shop, and connect.
“With this position comes responsibility. We see our role as extending beyond retail to being active participants in community upliftment.
“This means leveraging our resources, network of tenants, and physical space to create positive change. Whether it’s through initiatives like this, providing platforms for community events, or supporting local causes, we’re committed to being a force for good in East London.”
Link FM’s Caron de Coriolis said: “This wasn’t about big gestures. It was about small things done with great love.
“We’re so grateful to Jam Clothing, to Ursula and her team, and to every single person and store who made these kids feel seen and celebrated.”
