Recognising Extraordinary Commitment

Deputy Principal of Cascade Primary, Janine Griebelaar, has been named this year’s overall winner. Known for going above and beyond for her learners, Griebelaar provides uniforms, food parcels and ongoing care to support children both inside and outside the classroom. In recognition of her dedication, she will receive support R20 000 from Promenade to further her initiatives.

Runner-up, Youmna Mohammed, Chairperson of the Lobelia Senior Club, has also been acknowledged for her tireless efforts. Mohammed coordinates wellness activities for older residents and leads anti-bullying programmes in local schools, touching countless lives in Mitchells Plain and surrounding areas. She too received a donation to continue her inspiring work.

A Campaign Shaped by the Community

The “Heroes Among Us” initiative generated a remarkable response, with nominations pouring in for educators, health advocates, grassroots organisers and volunteers earlier this year. The Top 9 finalists were profiled in a photography exhibition at the centre, where shoppers could learn more about their stories and cast their votes. The exhibition not only celebrated the individuals but also created a space for the community to engage with and acknowledge the power of service.

Celebrating Ubuntu

Promenade extends its gratitude to every shopper who visited, voted and supported the campaign, as well as to each nominee who shared their story. Their contributions are a reminder of the strength and generosity that define local communities. Through this campaign, Promenade has not only recognised the individuals driving meaningful change but also strengthened the spirit of Ubuntu that unites and uplifts us all.

For more information on Promenade and its projects, visit www.libertypromenade.co.za or follow Liberty Promenade on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @ libertypromenademall_za.

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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.

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Taking the charity-based model of last year’s Mandela Day campaign further, this year’s approach widens the net to honour a broader group of community champions. These may include teachers, coaches, NGO leaders, volunteers, healthcare workers or anyone going over and above to change lives in their neighbourhood.

Recognising real impact

The initiative aims to identify and celebrate unsung heroes and grassroots contributors who reflect the spirit of Mandela Day through ongoing acts of service. Nominations and applications can be submitted online, with shortlisted candidates set to be profiled in a special in-centre photo exhibition this July.

Titled Heroes Among Us, the exhibition will showcase selected changemakers’ portraits and personal stories, allowing shoppers to engage with and be inspired by real-life examples of local impact. One standout nominee will receive funding of up to R20,000 to support their work.

In line with Promenade’s commitment to building meaningful social connections, this campaign aims to elevate the incredible people among us whose efforts are often overlooked but whose value is deeply felt in their communities.

“As a mall rooted in this community, we’re proud to shine a light on the everyday heroes who give so much of themselves. Heroes Among Us is about celebrating the heart of Mitchell’s Plain and beyond, the people who make a real difference,” said Brenda Bibby, General Manager at Liberty Promenade Mall.

How to participate

Nominations are now open and can be submitted via Liberty Promenade’s website or social media channels. To nominate a changemaker making a difference in your area or for more updates on the mall’s community-driven projects, visit www.libertypromenade.co.za or follow Liberty Promenade on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. A verification process will be conducted to ensure the authenticity of all entries.

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