The Hugest Happiness Blanket
Unveiled to Joyful Applause in Gqeberha
On March 20, 2025, Nelson Mandela University’s Second Avenue
Campus is being transformed into a breathtaking display of warmth and unity as
the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day movement unveils the world’s Hugest
Happiness Blanket. Hundreds gathered to celebrate this historic moment on the
United Nations International Day of Happiness, as a sea of vibrant, handcrafted
blankets – meticulously stitched together by South African KnitWits create an
unforgettable display of kindness in action.
The centrepiece, a massive yellow smiley emoji, radiated
joy, embodying the spirit of giving that has defined this movement since its
inception in 2013. More than just a spectacular installation, the event serves
as a tangible act of compassion, with every single blanket destined to provide
warmth to individuals and families in need.
(Left: Carolyn Steyn,
founder of 67 Blankets)
A Resounding Success
“The energy and love that filled the air today were
absolutely electric. It was more than an installation, it was a celebration of
humanity,” said Carolyn Steyn, founder of 67 Blankets for
Nelson Mandela Day. “It was particularly meaningful to bring this event to the
Eastern Cape, Madiba’s birthplace, where his legacy of service and kindness
continues to inspire us all.”
A quarter of the blankets will remain in Gqeberha, with
special distributions taking place across the Eastern Cape, including to
Bethsaida Ministry in Nieu-Bethesda, Paterson High School (which received 100
blankets in honour of its centenary), Missionvale Care Centre, Umphanda
Foundation for Autism, and Ekuphumleni Elderly Home.
Nelson Mandela
University played a pivotal role in hosting the event. Oyama Soga, expressed
her gratitude, stating: “This collaboration has been a testament to what can be
achieved when different sectors of society come together within a shared
purpose. The University provides an inspiring space for engagement, and the
enthusiasm from students and staff made the initiative even more impactful.
It’s been incredible to see how seamlessly everyone worked together to turn a simple
act of knitting into a powerful gesture of care and solidarity."
Creativity, Culture,
and Community
The event was a feast for the senses, with moving
performances from the Nelson Mandela University Choir, The Quintessentials
Acapella Group, Toynbee Ballet Academy, and the Lawson Brown Steel Band.
Acclaimed artists PJ Powers, Monique Hellenberg, and Tim Moloi bring their
musical magic to the celebration, while renowned artist Muneeb Wassin captures
the essence of giving with a live painting created on-site.
Adding to the excitement is a special moment for young
creatives. A T-shirt design competition saw learners from Khulile Primary
School – Daliso Amila, Khonzani Achumile, and Moyakhe Lathitha – honoured on
stage for their winning design. Their artwork beautifully captured the event’s
message of happiness and unity, further proving that the next generation is
already embracing Madiba’s ethos of service and kindness.
A Grateful
Acknowledgment
The event garnered international support with United Nations
Multi-Country Coordinator Ms Anthea Hurling saying: "The 67 Blankets Giant
Blanket of Happiness is a powerful symbol of unity, kindness, and shared
humanity. As it ties into the UN International Day of Happiness, it reminds us
that true joy comes from acts of generosity and compassion. In South Africa and
across the world, this initiative weaves together diverse communities, proving
that small actions – stitch by stitch – can create a fabric of hope,
resilience, and warmth for those in need. It is a testament to the spirit of
Ubuntu and the collective effort to build a happier, more inclusive world for
all."
General Bantu Holomisa, who delivered a powerful address,
commended all those involved, saying, “This event was a testament to the
strength of collective goodwill. My deepest gratitude to every person who
knitted, organised, and participated in this extraordinary day.”
Professor Andre Keet, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Nelson
Mandela University, echoed this sentiment, stating: “Nelson Mandela University
has a strong ethos of community engagement rooted in social justice, ubuntu and
the transformative power of education. Our Hubs of Convergence (HoC) at Nelson
Mandela University are a unique model of engagement, collaboration and
co-creation aimed at fostering deep, transformative partnerships between the
university and society. This initiative moves beyond traditional community
engagement by creating physical and intellectual spaces where academia, civil
society, government and communities come together to address pressing social
issues.”
(Left: Stuttafords - a major supporter - offloading masses of blankets)
As the blankets were laid out and the giant smiley beamed
across the campus, attendees were reminded of the power of small acts to create
massive change. The Hugest Happiness Blanket has not only set a new benchmark
for kindness but has left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who took part.
#67blankets
#thehugesthappinessblankets
Website: www.67blankets.co.za
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