Today is Mandela International Day – the global day for good that commemorates the humanitarian spirit of the father of the new South Africa, former president Nelson Mandela. On 18 July every year (Madiba’s birthday), ordinary people are urged to spend just 67 minutes doing good for someone else. We’ve got three ideas for your Mandela Day: commit to a beach clean-up, sponsor a disadvantaged child’s visit to the Aquarium, or give your time to marine-conservation efforts.

Help us clean up the beaches

In September, in support of International Coastal Clean-up Day, Aquarium staff and volunteers will be cleaning up a beach in the Cape Town area.

Commit to joining us in September by sending us an email today.

Last year, we banished bags full of rubbish at Muizenberg. Click here to read all about the event.

Give the gift of education to an underprivileged child

You can sponsor a disadvantaged child’s visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town, South Africa, for just R67 per visit – adding immeasurable value and joy to a child’s life.

An astonishing 80% of Cape Town’s children have never seen the ocean, despite living so nearby. This Mandela Day, you can help us create a sustainable ocean legacy by educating a child with the Two Oceans Aquarium.

Click here for more information and to donate.

Give your time to marine-conservation societies

If you’re passionate about the marine environment, why not volunteer your time to a conservation project. Off the top of our heads, you can help out or donate your time (or money) to the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds, the Dyer Island Conservation Trust, the >Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa: Western Cape, or the National Sea Rescue Institute.

Visit the Greater Good website for more ideas.