Driven by a deep commitment to the welfare of their own, the volunteer students of Kindness@Mandela at NMU are leading with compassion by addressing critical needs for students from low-income backgrounds.
George, South Africa (18 July 2025) – A student-driven initiative committed to outsourcing resources and coordinating efforts that enhance student welfare at the Nelson Mandela University is proving that empathy and collective action can transform lives.
Kindness@Mandela, a registered student society at Nelson Mandela University’s George Campus, is breaking stigmas and restoring dignity one project at a time.
One of the pressing challenges the dedicated volunteer students are currently addressing is the lack of access to sanitary pads and food among students from low-income backgrounds.
“This gap not only impacts their physical and emotional well-being but also hinders their ability to participate fully and confidently in academic life,” shares Jody Matroos, Coordinator for Philanthropic and Religious organisations at NMU.
For Jody and her team, helping with the Pad Drive and the Food Bank Initiative has brought invaluable support to those in need and touched their hearts in unimaginable ways.
“Every time we reach out to support young women and students, I feel a deep sense of joy. It reminds me that even small acts of kindness can make someone feel seen, supported, and important,” Jody tells us.
The projects aren’t just about giving out parcels, but about showing someone that they matter.
“There’s something powerful about looking a student in the eye and knowing that this simple act is helping them feel seen and supported. We’re restoring dignity, sharing hope, and reminding people that they’re not alone in their journey. That’s what drives me—the chance to be part of something that brings light into someone’s life, even if just for a moment.”
The Kindness@Mandela team is currently appealing for donations, no matter the size, towards its sanitary pad drive and food bank, in their ongoing efforts to restore dignity and hope to those they serve.
“Through the pad drive and the Food Bank Initiative, I’ve seen how many students silently carry the weight of need and struggle.
“This work is about giving a voice to those who feel unheard,” adds Jody.
For more information, contact Jody at s229215564@mandela.ac.za.
Sources: Nothando Mthembu | Jody Matroos
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