South African embassy, Sasol Qatar spread Mandela Day spirit

The South African embassy in Qatar and Sasol, the international integrated energy and chemical company, came together to mark Mandela Day by collecting in-kind donations that were presented to Tayf/Qatar Charity at a special ceremony.Employees of the South African embassy and Sasol Qatar donated items such as new and used clothing, toys, electronic gadgets and other non-perishable goods for the benefit of people in need. The goods were collected in a dedicated Tayf container placed in front of The Gate Mall, provided by Qatar Charity.The donation drive has been held in the spirit of the inspiring work of Nelson Mandela. While Mandela Day is celebrated on July 18, the drive seeks to spread the spirit of good doing beyond just one day. The donation drive will continue until September 22.Officially declared by the United Nations in 2009, Nelson Mandela International Day is celebrated annually in South Africa and across the globe in honour of the peace and anti-apartheid icon. Mandela Day aims to inspire individuals to take action to help change the world for the better and, in doing so, build a global movement for good. Saad Cachalia, South African Ambassador to Qatar, and Jack Saba, corporate affairs manager at Sasol Qatar, presented the donated goods to Abdullah Hadi al-Dosari, director of in-kind donations at Qatar Charity, in a handover ceremony.“Mandela Day is a time to give back to the society that we live in by committing a selfless act, however small it may be. Mandela has shown us that to make a difference in the world, all that’s required is fierce determination and patience. We thank each and every person who has contributed to the donation drive here in Qatar,” said Cachalia.“Sasol strives to promote people-centred sustainable development of the communities in which we operate. Nelson Mandela’s values of community service and volunteerism are universal. It was natural for us to partner with Qatar Charity, which works for the betterment of society in Qatar and abroad,” said Saba.“We are grateful to the South African embassy in Qatar and Sasol Qatar for giving back to the community. We continue to encourage organisations and individuals to come forward with contributions to Qatar Charity as each donation can make a difference in the life of someone less fortunate,” said al-Dosari.Sasol employees in South Africa mark Mandela Day by volunteering at schools, old-age homes, orphanages and youth care centres.