Harding, KwaZulu-Natal – Friday, 17 July 2026 – In honour of Nelson Mandela International Day, Gagasi FM, The Sound of KZN, reaffirmed its commitment to community development by dedicating more than 67 minutes of meaningful service at its adopted school, Mahelane Secondary School in Harding, KwaZulu-Natal.
Driven by the spirit of #DeedsForMadiba, the Gagasi FM team rolled up their sleeves to undertake a school revitalisation project aimed at creating a more inspiring and dignified learning environment for learners. The initiative formed part of the station’s ongoing Corporate Social Investment (CSI) programme, demonstrating that meaningful change begins with collective action and a shared commitment to uplifting communities.
Upon arriving at Mahelane Secondary School, the Gagasi FM team immediately got to work with one clear mission—to leave the school in a better condition than they found it. Working alongside dedicated partners and volunteers, the team carried out interior painting and classroom touch-ups, breathing new life into learning spaces that will continue to benefit both learners and educators for years to come.
The initiative was about far more than painting walls; it was about restoring hope, creating opportunity, and investing in the future of young people in rural KwaZulu-Natal.
Speaking during the initiative, Pinky Myeni, Head of Commercial Hub at Gagasi FM, reiterated the station’s purpose for the day.
“We came to Mahelane Secondary School with a promise to leave it in a much better condition than we found it. Through our #DeedsForMadiba initiative, we wanted to create an environment where learners feel inspired to dream bigger, learn better, and realise their full potential. Today reminded us that meaningful change starts with small acts of kindness carried out together.”
Throughout the day, the atmosphere was filled with purpose, teamwork, and community spirit as Gagasi FM staff, partners, and volunteers worked side by side to transform classrooms into brighter, more welcoming spaces.
The joy expressed by the school’s leadership, educators, and learners served as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact that community partnerships can have in improving educational environments.
Adding to the day’s message of service, Menelisi Ndwandwe, host of The Gagasi FM Talk Hour, encouraged South Africans to embrace Mandela Month beyond a single day of service.
“Just 67 minutes can change someone’s life. We came to Harding to repaint classrooms so that learners can return to an environment that reflects the bright futures they deserve. Giving back means ensuring that our children learn in spaces that inspire them. We encourage everyone to use the entire month of July to lend a helping hand in their communities because service should never be limited to one day.”
The success of the initiative was made possible through the generous support of Top T Tiles, whose donation of paint and materials enabled the transformation of the school’s classrooms. Their partnership with Gagasi FM reflects a shared commitment to investing in education and strengthening communities across KwaZulu-Natal.
Gagasi FM extended its sincere appreciation to Thulani and the entire Top T Tiles team for believing in the vision of creating better learning environments for young people and for partnering with the station to make a tangible difference.
The collaboration demonstrated the powerful impact that can be achieved when corporate organisations, community partners, and media platforms unite in support of education and social development.
As an adopted school under Gagasi FM’s community outreach programme, Mahelane Secondary School continues to benefit from the station’s long-term commitment to educational support and learner development. The Mandela Day initiative further strengthened this relationship while reinforcing Gagasi FM’s belief that education remains one of the most powerful tools for changing lives.
The day’s activities embodied the values that Nelson Mandela championed throughout his lifetime—service, compassion, dignity, and the belief that every individual has the power to make a difference.
For Gagasi FM, the initiative was not simply about fulfilling the symbolic 67 minutes of community service. It was about creating lasting impact, restoring hope, and demonstrating that collective action can transform lives and communities.
As The Sound of KZN, Gagasi FM remains committed to using its platform to drive positive social change, empower communities, and inspire meaningful action throughout KwaZulu-Natal. Through initiatives such as #DeedsForMadiba, the station continues to honour Madiba’s legacy by turning compassion into action and ensuring that the spirit of giving remains alive long after Mandela Day has passed.
Gagasi FM extends its heartfelt gratitude to the leadership, staff, learners, volunteers, and partners who contributed to the success of the initiative, proving once again that when communities come together with purpose, even the simplest acts of kindness can leave a lasting legacy.
