The global call to action for people and organisations to embrace the values and legacy of Nelson Mandela is one that is closely linked to Sasol’s commitment to uplift people and the communities in which they operate. Education is one of the key pillars in Sasol’s community building programme and in the build up to Mandela Day today, Sasol employees spent not only 67 minutes but the entire day refurbishing the Hope School in Westcliff, Johannesburg.

The Hope School, one of the oldest schools in Johannesburg, was founded in 1929 and has provided quality education, therapy and accommodation to physically disabled learners and students with learning barriers. Starting from pre-school through to Grade 12, the school offers a holistic education comprising academic, cultural and sporting opportunities.

Mandela Day is yet another platform at which Sasol expresses its care and commitment to communities. In light of this, Sasol aims to uphold the spirit of Mandela Day and inspire employees to make a difference using what they have in their communities.

Sasol employees descended on the school where they were involved in various activities including refurbishing the school and making it more hospitable by putting new leisure equipment before the children returned for the new term. One hundred and twenty employees were divided into eight teams of between 10 – 20 individuals, and were responsible for different activities on the day ranging from giving the dining hall a complete makeover to painting the bathroom walls and planting trees in the recreational area and garden.

“The day spent at the Hope School was a very rewarding experience,” said Trudy de Klerk, SAP Administrator at Sasol Corporate Affairs. “It was an opportunity for us to enjoy time with colleagues from other business units outside the work environment and give back to those who are less fortunate,” she said.

“As a company, we believe that making a difference is started by a change reaction. By donating our time we are not just doing good for ourselves but for the community, which in turn will lead to a better South Africa,” said Pamilla Mudhray, Group Community Affairs Manager at Sasol. “Nelson Mandela Day is another way in which the country can unite and make each individual a change agent,” she said.

last updated: 18 Jul 2012

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Bringing hope to Hope School - Sasol Oil's own Hope School graduate Nozithembiso Manzi

Task List - Hope School

Before and after photographs - Amazing change - Hope school

Come make a difference - Poster