In the true spirit of Nelson Mandela International Day, East London Ladies Circle transformed compassion into action, proving that when a community comes together, meaningful change is possible.
Following days of preparation, the organisation successfully carried out its annual Soup-A-Thon initiative, preparing and distributing 325.8 litres of soup, together with bread, bottled water and additional food items to 1,103 people across KuGompo City.
The initiative reached eight beneficiary organisations while also providing warm meals and food packs to people living on the streets, ensuring some of the city’s most vulnerable residents were not forgotten.
The beneficiary organisations included Greensleeves, Kings Children’s Home, Guardians of Hope, Feeding a Family East London, Plateless, Christian Youth Development Centre, Helping Those in Need (Fynbos Feeding) and God’s Heart Desire.
Preparations took place at the Round Table Gonubie Clubhouse, where volunteers spent hours chopping vegetables, stirring pots, packing food and organising deliveries. Hairnets and nitrile gloves were worn throughout to ensure high hygiene standards as members worked in an atmosphere filled with teamwork, laughter and purpose.
The project formed part of Ladies Circle SA’s national Rebuild Through Service campaign, which encourages members across the country to uplift communities through acts of service.
Chairperson Kay-Lee Chetty said there was never any doubt the
Soup-A-Thon would return after the overwhelming need they witnessed last year.
“We saw just how great the need was, so there was no question that we wanted to do it again this year,” Chetty said.
Chetty praised project convenor Zoe Grobler for leading the initiative from start to finish.
“Zoe put an incredible amount of time into making sure everything came together. She did an amazing job,” Chetty said.
“We reached out to people we know, while others approached us asking how they could get involved.
“Thanks to everyone’s generosity, every aspect of the day was fully sponsored.”
Reflecting on the impact of the initiative, she said even a simple bowl of soup could offer hope.
“A warm bowl of soup might seem like a small thing, but it reminds someone they’re seen and that people care. When a community comes together to serve, it gives people hope, and I think we all need a little more of that.”
Chetty said she hoped the initiative nourished more than just empty stomachs.
“I hope it reminded people that they are valued and loved. If it inspires even one more person to give back, then we’ve achieved far more than simply serving soup for a day.”
The success of the project was made possible through partnerships with Rotary International, Round Table Southern Africa, 41ers Association of Southern Africa, Mortgage Masters and numerous community sponsors.
“Days like this show what can be achieved when a community works together.
“Because of everyone’s support, we were able to split into teams and ensure all eight beneficiaries received their deliveries,” Chetty said.
The initiative was driven by a dedicated team of Ladies Circle members: Melanie English, Zoe Grobler, Kay-Lee Chetty, Demi Emmerson, Kay-Leigh O’Hagan, Yolandi Gray-Browne, Jayden Thies, Daily Dispatch sales executive Lauren Francis, Casey West and Alison Crous.
For beneficiary organisations, Mandela Day represents far more than receiving food.
Hannah Jayne Wheller of Kings Children’s Home said the annual day of service brings much-needed support and encouragement.
“We look forward to Mandela Day every year because it’s a day when the public gets to see our home,” Wheller said.
“Our children receive so much love, attention, food and essential items. It truly is one of the highlights of our year.
“I want to thank every donor.”
