Bolt South Africa Celebrates Mandela Day with a Pledge to Youth Futures

By Bolt

Bolt South Africa celebrated Mandela Day 2025 with a powerful and heartfelt initiative that honoured Nelson Mandela’s legacy through action, education, and empowerment. This representation of the 67 minutes tradition set the tone for a day filled with inspiration, mentorship, and real-world exposure.

The celebration took place at Constitution Hill, a location rich in historical meaning and deeply connected to Madiba’s life. Once a site of imprisonment and now a place of justice and democracy, Constitution Hill served as the perfect backdrop to a day dedicated to transformation, leadership, and hope. Hosting the event there reinforced the values Mandela stood for, justice, freedom, and education - and made the day both impactful and symbolic.

Bolt South Africa invited 67 learners from Fidelity and Namedi Secondary Schools in Diepkloof Soweto to engage with professionals from across the organisation in a program that offered more than just career exposure. It offered connection, encouragement, and a glimpse into what’s possible through education, resilience, and purpose. From legal experts and human resource professionals to tech specialists, PR, brand leads, data privacy officers, safety strategists, and creators, the room was filled with individuals who shared not only how their careers work, but how their journeys began.

Lerato Motsoeneng, Senior General Manager of Bolt South Africa opened the day with a powerful welcoming address as he reflected on his own challenging varsity years, shaped by financial hardship and perseverance, and how those early experiences gave him a deep sense of purpose that continues to guide his leadership today.

“Our youth are not just the future, they are the present,” said Motsoeneng. “As we reflect on Madiba’s legacy, we remember that leadership is not about status. It is about service. True impact comes from lifting others as we climb. Mandela taught us that courage and compassion can build nations. We are trying to build hope, one young mind at a time.”

Among the standout moments of the day was a special appearance by Grace Mondlana, South Africa’s #1 award-winning TikTok sensation and creative powerhouse. Grace captivated the audience as she shared her inspiring journey from humble beginnings to building a massive digital following. She reminded learners that no dream is too big, emphasizing that with consistency, creativity, and self-belief, she  left the pupils with an affirmation: “I am enough, I am a priority, I am worthy, I am in control, I will succeed, I am deserving, I am capable, I am powerful and I am beautiful.” Her infectious energy, relatability, and authenticity lit up the room and left the students deeply inspired.

The day also featured appearances by Anele Zondo, radio host, musician, TV personality, and influencer who gave an insightful talk about her path in the music and entertainment industry, and Masterpiece, the talented artist from PianoHub, who shared how his musical career began. Together, these influential voices left a lasting impact on the learners, showing them that success is possible through passion and perseverance.

Throughout the day, speakers from various functions within Bolt shared stories of their professional journeys, how they entered their respective fields, what obstacles they faced during university, and how they found purpose in their careers. These stories helped demystify the corporate world for the learners and made success feel tangible and relatable. The honest conversations and personal reflections gave the students the confidence to believe in their own potential and to dream boldly.

The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where learners were given the opportunity to engage one-on-one with Bolt professionals. The session allowed for open dialogue, mentorship, and the chance to ask candid questions about career paths and personal growth.

To ensure the momentum continues, Bolt South Africa announced plans to launch a dedicated internship program. This initiative aims to create real opportunities for young people by providing them with hands-on experience, mentorship, and skills development to help combat youth unemployment and build a new generation of South African leaders.

“We believe in investing in potential, not just performance,” said Motsoeneng. “This internship program is our way of walking the talk. Mandela taught us that education is the most powerful weapon to change the world. We are handing that weapon to the next generation.”