Communities are not transformed by chance. They change because people decide that waiting is no longer an option.
That spirit of collective action will be on full display this Mandela Day as residents, businesses and volunteers come together on Corlett Drive for a community clean-up aimed at creating a neighbourhood everyone can take pride in.
The initiative, led by the Corlett Drive Improvement Precinct (CDIP), invites the public to dedicate 67 minutes to improving one of Johannesburg’s busy commercial corridors, proving that meaningful change often begins with simple acts of service.
From Concern to Community Action
A suburb rarely deteriorates overnight.
Instead, it changes gradually while many hope someone else will step in to solve the problem.
For a group of committed residents and business owners along Corlett Drive, that was never going to be enough.
They established the Corlett Drive Improvement Precinct (CDIP), a volunteer-run non-profit organisation that has introduced daily cleaning teams along Corlett Drive from Rudd Road to the M1, while also bringing in security measures to help improve the precinct.
Now, Mandela Day offers an opportunity for the wider community to become part of that ongoing effort.
A Shared Responsibility
Acting Chair of the Corlett Drive Improvement Precinct, Mark Pencharz, believes lasting improvements begin when communities choose to work together.
“It is that special time again to celebrate Madiba’s legacy,” says Pencharz. “Let us all take responsibility and make our precinct a place we can be proud of. Little steps in the right direction lead to focused outcomes.”
His message reflects the spirit of Mandela Day—a reminder that lasting impact is created through consistent action rather than grand gestures.
More Than a Cleanup
The morning promises to be about more than collecting litter.
919FM will broadcast live throughout the event, bringing music and energy to accompany volunteers as they work together to revitalise the precinct.
Organisers hope the initiative becomes the first of many community-driven action days that continue strengthening the area long after Mandela Day has passed.
Starbucks South Africa Supports the Initiative
Supporting this year’s cleanup is Starbucks South Africa, which will provide reusable cups as part of its commitment to environmental sustainability.
The partnership reinforces the idea that creating cleaner communities extends beyond picking up litter—it also involves reducing waste before it reaches the streets.
Daniela Jordaan, Marketing Co-Ordinator at Starbucks South Africa, says small everyday decisions can create lasting change.
“Our white reusable cups are one way we play our part in creating a better environment. Mandela Day reminds us that meaningful change starts with simple acts of service. Whether it is choosing to reuse a cup or giving 67 minutes to your neighbourhood, every action counts. We are proud to support the Corlett Drive Improvement Precinct as they work to create a cleaner, safer and more welcoming place. Small actions can have a lasting impact.”
Every Minute Makes a Difference
Mandela Day encourages people to dedicate 67 minutes of service in honour of Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of public service.
For those joining the Corlett Drive cleanup, the impact will be visible before the day is over—a cleaner environment, stronger community connections and a shared commitment to protecting the neighbourhood.
It is a reminder that lasting change begins when ordinary people decide to take responsibility for the places they live and work.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 18 July 2026
Time: 9:00am
Location: Corlett Drive, outside McCarthy
Participation is free and no booking is required.
Volunteers are encouraged to bring gloves and bin bags if available.
Everyone is welcome, including children.
