Cape Town, 8 July 2025: Liberty Promenade Mall’s “Heroes Among Us” campaign has entered its next phase with the announcement of the Top 9 finalists. Launched ahead of Mandela Day 2025, the initiative called on the public to nominate individuals driving positive change through consistent, selfless service in their communities. From educators and volunteers, to grassroots organisers and health advocates, the project received an incredible number of heartfelt nominations.
The Top 9 have now been selected and are being showcased in a photography exhibition in the centre, which features portraits and personal stories that highlight the everyday impact of each nominee. Shoppers are invited to view the display in the Food District passage and vote for who they feel is creating the greatest impact.
Honouring real stories of service
The nine finalists are:
- Gadija Bazier – Co-founder of the Mitchells Plain Crisis Forum, which supports families of victims and helps trace missing individuals.
- La’iqah Daames – Known for her community sanitary pad drives and work with unemployed youth, La’iqah is driven by compassion and a drive to help.
- Janine Griebelaar – Deputy Principal at Cascade Primary, Janine supports learners in and beyond the classroom with uniforms, food parcels and care.
- Glenn Hans – Founder of Vannie Hanover Park Health and Wellness Club, which promotes fitness, wellness and youth development in Hanover Park.
- Youmna Mohammed – Chairperson of Lobelia Senior Club, Youmna coordinates wellness activities for older residents and leads anti-bullying campaigns in local schools.
- Tahierah Ryklief – Manenberg-born co-founder of Rebuild For Change, who supports neurodiverse children and those facing emotional or academic challenges.
- Litha Sam-Sam – Youth leader and founder of the Loxion Mobile Library in Vrygrond, who delivers books and essentials by bicycle while mentoring local youth.
- Nigel Savel – Founder of the 9Miles Project, offering surf therapy and mentorship to over 120 at-risk youth in Strandfontein, Elands Bay and St. Francis Bay.
- Roscoe Williams – Founder of Read to Rise, an NGO focused on youth literacy through book distribution and reading sessions in under-resourced communities.
How to vote
Voting is now open at Liberty Promenade Mall’s Food District, where visitors can cast their vote by submitting a till slip of any value, clearly marked with their contact details on the back, into the entry boxes at the exhibition. The finalist that receives the most votes will be awarded up to R20 000 to support their work. Voting closes on 25 July 2025. Two shoppers that vote will also stand a chance to win a R 1000 Liberty Promenade shopping voucher each.
For more information on the finalists and campaign, visit www.libertypromenade.co.za or follow Liberty Promenade on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @ libertypromenademall_za.