On Mandela Day, South African citizens are encouraged to spend 67 minutes of their time in service to others in need. These 67 minutes are in appreciation of the 67 years that Nelson Mandela spent fighting for justice, equality, and human rights for all. This encompasses the years he worked as a human rights lawyer, the years he spent in prison, the years of his presidency, and the years after that when he remained an icon and example for international human rights.  

Keagometswe Makhaya chose to spend 67 Minutes with Ammish Community Development and celebrate her birthday with our beneficiaries. But let’s hear what she has to say:

“My name is Keamogetswe from White City.
I grew up in meadowlands under the guidance of my pertanal grandma, I lost both my parents while I was still in school. My mother, when I was 8 and my father when I was 16. I grew up depressed and bitter, but had no one to vent to. I was so young and did not understand why I was feeling like, I couldn’t put a name to my condition.

I ended up finding joy, happiness and a voice with my peers. The streets was were I could be free, I was an alcoholic and was introduced to drugs like weed, codeine syrup and pills. I’ve spent all my 20s in the streets with friends, celebrated my birthdays with friends and alcohol.

I was blessed with a daughter, that’s when I quit my life style. When I celebrated my 30th I chose to do something totally different, I was grateful to God that I am still alive. I reflected on the fact that my mother never reached 30, therefore it was a huge milestone.

I am grateful for the life I am living , I plan to help teenagers who are in the same situation and help them speak up about how they feel.

I chose Ammish center to celebrate my birthday with them. I was celebrating life and I wanted to teach them that life can be hard, but it is worth celebrating and giving back.

Keagometswe Makhaya

It felt so good seeing their smile and the gratitude in their eyes, it was very fulfilling. I look forward to re-visit the center more, since it’s near my house.”

Thank you very much for your words and your support with the kids!

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