OWN CORRESPONDENT
This is the biggest showing of handmade blankets ever displayed in the country in one location at one time with thousands of women – yes, and thankfully some men too – becoming eager KnitWits for Mandela, to help the less privileged in our country cope with the winter cold.
On a temporary basis, thousands of these blankets, arriving from all over the country, were stitched together to make “the biggest blanket in the world” and thereby qualify for the Guinness Book of Records. 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day was voted South African Campaign of the Year 2014.
Jewish Report became an enthusiastic contributor to this worthy cause and the Jewish community reacted to this challenge with enthusiasm and passion. In a time of ugly xenophobia, this project has become a true symbol of our Rainbow Nation working together for a common cause.
Says CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation Sello Hatang: “We are honoured to be associated with this initiative which we hope will help build a more cohesive society, especially during these trying times faced by our country. We hope it will help stitch our wounded nation (together) and restore dignity.”
This Mandela Day initiative, the brainchild of Carolyn Steyn, celebrates the ethos and the legacy of a man who united South Africans in a time of uncertainty.
“We hope South Africans can see these blankets have been hand made with love and compassion. For several months, the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day has encouraged South Africans to knit, sew or crochet a blanket. It has managed to knit together communities in such a positive way, and will continue to do so going forward,” says Hatang.
There are now KniktWit groups not only in South Africa but also in the US, India, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Cyprus, London and in The Netherlands.
“This world record breaking attempt is just one step in our incredible journey – one which promises to, stitch by stitch, keep South Africans warm in winter,” promises Steyn.
