Southfield Library and I Can Academy inspire community through storytelling
Children displaying their painted South African flag at the Southfield library on Mandela Day.
Image: supplied
Gafieldien Agulhas, assistant librarian, Southfield library
Southfield Library partnered with the I Can Academy in Parkwood to host a heartfelt and educational celebration honoring the legacy of Nelson Mandela, on Friday, July 18.
The I Can Academy is a non-profit organisation focused on children's learning and development as well as feeding the community on a daily basis.
The event featured a powerful storytelling session by local librarians, aimed at inspiring the youth and strengthening community ties through literacy and learning.
Children listening to story time with I Can Academy members as well as LiBee the library mascot.
Image: supplied
In conjunction with the storytelling, Southfield Library launched a vibrant membership drive to raise awareness about the services and programs available at the library. Families were invited to register for library cards, explore the collections, and learn about educational resources, digital services, and youth programs designed to empower the next generation of readers and thinkers.
In a deeply moving tribute, children from I Can Academy treated the library staff and community guests to a spiritual dance performance. Their interpretive movements, filled with grace and purpose, reflected unity and the spirit of Ubuntu. The event culminated in a powerful rendition of South Africa’s national anthem, sung in memory of the late Nelson Mandela, evoking both pride and remembrance.