For 11 years, 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day has been stitching love and warmth into the hearts of South Africans, and now, they’re inviting you to celebrate a journey of kindness like no other – because every stitch tells a story and this one is far from over.
Johannesburg, South Africa (19 January 2025) – South Africa is about to celebrate an extraordinary milestone of compassion and creativity. 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day is turning 11!
Over the past decade, this inspiring initiative has transformed lives, communities, and even public spaces, all with one simple mission: spreading warmth, one blanket at a time.
This year, the celebration is set to be as special as the cause itself, with a heart-warming event at The Farmhouse at Steyn City on Saturday, 25 January 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Everyone is invited to be part of this remarkable journey of kindness and creativity, with just one small request: bring along a handmade “Happy Blanket” or balls of wool to contribute to the cause.
This 11th anniversary also marks the launch of an exciting initiative: “The Journey to the Hugest Happiness Blanket”.
Blankets donated during the birthday celebration will become part of an iconic creation – a massive tapestry of joy destined for the Eastern Cape. Thanks to the generosity of Stuttaford Van Lines, these heartfelt gifts will travel from Johannesburg to Gqeberha, bringing comfort to those who need it most. KnitWits™ across the country are encouraged to join the movement from wherever they are. Whether knitting at home or gathering with others, each stitch will contribute to the Hugest Happiness Blanket. On 20 March 2025, as part of the United Nations International Day of Happiness, these blankets will be displayed at Nelson Mandela University – a vibrant reminder of unity and care.
A Legacy of Kindness
67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day began in 2013 with a simple challenge. Carolyn Steyn, inspired by Zelda la Grange, crocheted 67 blankets to honour Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of public service. What started as one woman’s heartfelt gesture has blossomed into a global movement, powered by thousands of volunteers affectionately known as KnitWits™.
The group has made history by breaking world records, dazzling communities with breathtaking blanket installations, and knitting hope into the fabric of South Africa.
Founder Carolyn Steyn reflects: “It’s incredible to reflect on how far we’ve come. This 11th birthday is not just a celebration of our achievements but a rallying call for the future. Let’s unite, stitch by stitch, to continue Madiba’s legacy of love and care.”
Save the Date
Date: Saturday, 25 January 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Venue: The Farmhouse at Steyn City
Entry: A handmade “Happy Blanket” or a wool donation. (Wool will also be available for purchase on the day, thanks to Kismet and The Wool Shoppe.)
RSVP is essential as space is limited: rsvp@67blankets.co.za
As 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day steps into its second decade, the mission remains clear: to transform lives with warmth, love, and unity. Whether through a single stitch or a shared moment, every effort counts in creating a future where kindness threads through every community.
For more information, visit 67blankets.co.za or connect on social media.
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