Honouring Madiba: A joyful celebration of 30 years of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund

The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (NMCF), marking 30 years with the Ultimate Children’s Celebration over the weekend, was commemorated in a tradition started by Madiba, who believed his birthday was best spent in the company of children. 

In a tribute to Nelson Mandela’s legacy, the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund hosted the celebration on Saturday at Gold Reef City, marking the Fund’s 30th anniversary. 

Madiba’s vision of a world where children are valued, protected, and free to flourish came to life when over 200 children from different communities were treated to a full day of play, entertainment, and learning.

Part of the festivities were theme park rides, magic shows, storytelling corners, dance performances, and educational games. Gold Reef City provided a safe, inclusive space for children to experience joy and connection, true to the spirit of the Fund’s founding principles. 

“This event is a living embodiment of what Madiba envisioned: a society where every child is seen, valued, and celebrated,” said Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund CEO Dr Linda Ncube-Nkomo.

“For 30 years, the Fund has stood as a voice for children’s rights and well-being. Today’s celebration was not only about joy, but also about justice - about reinforcing the importance of play, safety, and belonging as essentials in a child’s development. This is our legacy in action.”

In addition, the event also functioned as a platform to promote children’s rights to play, education, and comprehensive development. There were activities designed to foster self-worth, inclusion, and social interaction. The Fund’s core mission to amplify children’s voices and protect their well-being was underscored by the event.

Nedbank, the primary sponsor, was instrumental in making the celebration possible, thanks to its generous support alongside other sponsors and partners.

“At Nedbank, we believe that building a thriving country starts with protecting and empowering its children,” said Nedbank’s Social Impact Unit Executive Head, Poovi Pillay.

“This event reflects our commitment to using our financial expertise for good. Supporting the well-being of children is not just part of our social impact work; it is core to our vision for a more inclusive and sustainable South Africa. We’re honoured to walk this journey alongside the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund.”

On Facebook, the NMCF thanked its partners for making the celebration a success. Nedbank as their headline sponsor, Ford Motor Company South Africa for getting the kids to and from the celebration safely, Axeline Works for the birthday cake, Little Ashford for volunteering and the care packages, and Dear Bella for a generous donation of sanitary products, and Gold Reef City for hosting them. 

Commenting, Astroboy X Sello said: “We really enjoyed this day, and we appreciate it so much as children who are part of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. This really meant a lot to us, it made us have hope, faith in change in life, and made us feel important for the last time, thank you…”

thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za