In a heartwarming display of solidarity and service, Delta Air Lines, in partnership with Century City Conference Centre (CCCC) and The Amy Foundation, has prepared 1 500 meals for disadvantaged youth during Mandela Month. This initiative, executed on a particularly cold and wet day in Cape Town, exemplifies the commitment to Nelson Mandela’s legacy of compassion and community service.
The meals were distributed to students participating in the Amy Foundation’s After School (ASP) and Youth Skills Development (YSD) Programmes. This act of generosity aims to support and uplift the lives of young people in vulnerable communities, providing them not only with nourishment but also with hope and encouragement.
Shareen Akoodie, General Manager of Delta Air Lines, expressed her gratitude and commitment to the cause: “At Delta Air Lines, we are honoured to contribute to such a meaningful cause during Mandela Month. Partnering with CCCC and The Amy Foundation allows us to give back to the communities that are so important to us. It’s our privilege to help provide these meals and support the future of these remarkable young individuals. Initiatives like this should not only be saved for Mandela Month, but we are committed to making a difference by doing more throughout the year where we can.”
Gary Koetser, CEO of Century City Conference Centre, added: “Our collaboration with Delta Air Lines and The Amy Foundation is a testament to the power of coming together to make a positive impact. We are proud to play a role in serving the community and carrying forward Nelson Mandela’s legacy of service and leadership. Initiatives like these should not only be reserved for Mandela Month, but we will strive to conduct similar projects more frequently. Even though Mandela Day offers South Africans an opportunity to be of service to those who need it most, it is only one day a year, and random acts of kindness and service should be part of our daily lives.”
Kevin Chaplin, Managing Director of The Amy Foundation, also shared his thoughts: “The support from Delta Air Lines and Century City Conference Centre is invaluable to us. On a day when the weather could have dampened spirits, their generosity ensured that our youth were not only fed but also felt supported and valued. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and commitment to our mission.”
This collaboration highlights the strength of community partnerships in driving meaningful change and honouring the values that Nelson Mandela stood for. The Amy Foundation remains dedicated to empowering youth through its various programmes, and with the support of partners like Delta Air Lines and CCCC, continues to make a significant impact in the lives of young people across Cape Town.
