Cape Town, 31 August 2026: Book lovers can clear some space on their shelves this September as Books With Purpose, Cavendish Square’s annual charity book sale, returns from Thursday, 17 September to Sunday, 20 September 2026.

Taking place on the lower ground and ground levels of the centre, the four-day sale will bring together thousands of pre-loved books and a diverse group of local charities and community organisations, with proceeds from books sold going to various non-profit organisations, all of which do incredible work in their areas of need.

Whether looking for a new novel to disappear into, a great holiday read, books for younger readers, or an unexpected second-hand find, shoppers can browse the selection while knowing their purchases will help support valuable work being done in the Cape.

Turning Pages Into Support

Fourteen organisations will participate in this year’s sale: Doing It For The Orphans, Lamberts and Elands Bay Animal Protection Society, St Luke’s Combined Hospices, Nazareth House, Plumpets Animal Shelter, Animal Rescue Organisation, Domestic Animal Rescue Group, TEARS Animal Rescue, SA Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind, Woodside Special Care Centre, Cat Trapping and Sterilisation Network, U-turn Homeless Ministries, Help the Rural Child and Sinako After School Care.

For Cavendish Square, the annual event offers a simple way for the wider community to get behind these organisations. A book that has already been read and enjoyed can find a new home while generating funds to help another cause continue its work.

“There is something very special about seeing our community come together to support so many different causes through something as simple as buying a book,” says Cavendish Square Centre Manager, Faizah Behardien. “We encourage Capetonians to visit the sale, enjoy the experience of finding a great pre-loved read and, importantly, help these organisations continue the valuable work they do.”

More Than Two Decades of Giving

The roots of the charity book sale stretch back over 20 years, when Beverley Whelehan first brought charities together and gave them an opportunity to raise funds through the sale of pre-loved books. Her sister, Rosalie Jack, who now manages the book sale, says the enthusiasm of the participating organisations remains at the heart of the event.

“What began with my late sister Beverley over two decades ago has grown into an event that the charities and our supporters genuinely look forward to each year,” says Jack. “There is always such wonderful energy around the sale, and it is incredibly rewarding to see books passed on to new readers while helping the participating organisations raise much-needed funds. We hope Cape Town’s book lovers will once again come out in numbers and support them.”

For more details on Cavendish Square shopping centre stores and promotions, visit cavendish.co.za or follow the centre on social media for regular updates on Instagram.

The post Books With Purpose Returns To Cavendish Square This September appeared first on Alt News Network.

Cape Town, 27 August 2026: Liberty Promenade has revealed the winners of its “Power of Sport” campaign, launched as part of Mandela Month to recognise local organisations using sport to support their communities, nurture young talent and drive positive change. More than 1,700 shoppers took part in the public vote to choose the organisation they felt was making the biggest difference.

Recognising Community Champions

Following weeks of voting, Red Rovers Football Club (FC) was crowned the overall winner of The Power of Sport campaign. The club was recognised for its commitment to developing young people through football, offering them opportunities to grow while building teamwork, discipline and community pride.

As the overall winner, Red Rovers FC received R20 000 to support and grow its programmes, enabling the club to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people in Mitchells Plain.

Runner-up Tafulzucht was also recognised for its dedication to empowering young people through sport and received R5 000 to continue its valuable work within the community.

A Campaign Driven by the Community

The Promenade Power of Sport campaign showcased 13 inspiring local organisations, each demonstrating how sport can transform lives and strengthen communities. Throughout the campaign, shoppers had the opportunity to meet many of the finalists during in-centre activations, learn about their programmes, and cast their votes for the organisation they believed deserved to win.

The initiative not only celebrated the important role these organisations play but also encouraged the wider community to recognise and support the positive impact being made through sport every day.

Liberty Promenade extends its sincere thanks to every shopper who participated by voting and supporting the campaign. The overwhelming response affirms the incredible power of sport to inspire hope, develop future leaders, and bring communities together.

For more information on the finalists and campaign, visit libertypromenade.co.za or follow Liberty Promenade on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

The post ‘The Power of Sport’ Winners Recognised for Community Impact appeared first on Alt News Network.

Johannesburg, 24 August 2026: Eastgate Shopping Centre has partnered with “Better Bedfordview” as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting and investing in the community it has been part of for more than 40 years.

The Better Bedfordview Commercial Precinct has been created to improve and uplift the area around Eastgate, and with future buy-in from other businesses, the objective is to grow the commercial precinct beyond Eastgate, too. This new enterprise is an extension of Better Bedfordview and the broader Better Neighbourhoods network of community-led organisations that clean, restore and maintain roads, pavements, parks and public spaces.

Improving the Area Surrounding the Centre

Through the Better Bedfordview Commercial Precinct initiative, Eastgate will contribute towards the ongoing maintenance and enhancement of the precinct surrounding the shopping centre. This includes landscape maintenance and beautification, pothole repairs, road maintenance, cleaning and upkeep of public areas, the restoration of roads, pavements and public spaces, and initiatives to improve the overall appearance and accessibility of the area.

The Better Bedfordview Commercial Precinct initiative forms part of Eastgate’s broader commitment to creating positive impact beyond its shopping centre, recognising that vibrant public spaces and strong community collaborations contribute to the long-term success of both local businesses and the communities they serve. As one of Bedfordview’s key commercial landmarks, the shopping centre recognises the important role it can play in supporting a thriving precinct where people can shop, work, do business, socialise and spend time together.

“Eastgate has always been deeply connected to the Bedfordview community, and we believe thriving public spaces benefit everyone,” said Saadiyah Kahn, General Manager at Eastgate Shopping Centre. “Aligning with Better Bedfordview and establishing the Better Bedfordview Commercial Precinct allows us to make a meaningful contribution beyond our own property, helping to create a cleaner and more welcoming environment for residents, businesses and visitors. We are proud to support an initiative that is investing in the long-term future of Bedfordview.”

Better Bedfordview chairperson Marina Constas commented: “We are delighted to have this opportunity to extend the impact of Better Bedfordview. We look forward to collaborating with Eastgate to show what is possible when the private sector and community organisations join forces to create better neighbourhoods and ultimately improve South Africa, one suburb at a time.”

For more details and regular updates on Eastgate, its stores, events, and projects, visit www.eastgateshops.com or follow Eastgate on social media: @eastgateshoppingcentre.

The post Eastgate and Better Bedfordview Launch New Commercial Precinct Initiative appeared first on Alt News Network.

Mbombela, 30 July 2026: Continuing its tradition of giving back, Riverside Mall is once again supporting the community through a clothing donation that will help local non-profit organisations continue their vital work across the Lowveld.

As part of this year’s Mandela Day initiative, clothing generously donated by Pick n Pay Riverside Mall has been handed over to a number of local NPOs, including some organisations that previously benefited from Riverside Mall’s Community Closet initiative in 2025. The donation has also extended support to new beneficiary organisations, allowing the impact to reach even more people in need.

Each of the recipients, namely House of Faith, Hope and Love, Mpumalanga Leadership Foundation, Destiny Drop-in Centre, We have Risen Foundation and Liznica House of Hope, received four giant bags of brand new clothes. A total of 200 kg of clothing was donated.

Continuing a Tradition of Community Support

Last year’s Community Closet initiative touched the lives of many individuals and families, reinforcing the importance of partnerships that make a tangible difference within the community. This year’s Mandela Month handover builds on that legacy by working with organisations that are able to distribute clothing directly to the people who need it most.

By partnering with local NPOs, Riverside Mall hopes to ensure that every donated item reaches individuals and families through trusted organisations that understand the needs of their communities and provide ongoing support throughout the year.

Nomfundo Nhlapo, Marketing Manager at Riverside Mall, says Mandela Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of giving back in ways that create lasting impact. “Community has always been at the heart of Riverside Mall. We are grateful to Pick n Pay Riverside Mall for their generous contribution, which will allow us to support organisations that work tirelessly to uplift others every day. We hope this donation will make a meaningful difference while reminding our community that even simple acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.”

This donation reflects Riverside Mall’s ongoing commitment to supporting the communities that have supported the centre over the years. By working alongside valued partners such as Pick n Pay and local NPOs, the centre continues to find practical ways to give back where it is needed most.

For more information about Riverside Mall, its stores and events, please visit riversidemall.co.za or follow the centre on social media @riversidemall.

The post Riverside Mall Donates 200 kg of Clothing to Lowveld Charities appeared first on Alt News Network.

Cape Town, 15 July 2026: Liberty Promenade is calling on the Mitchells Plain community to mark Mandela Month by backing the Top 13 finalists in its Power of Sport campaign, celebrating local sporting organisations that are creating lasting change through opportunity, teamwork and community development.

On Friday 24 and Saturday 25 July 2026, from 11:00 to 14:00 in the Food District, shoppers will have the opportunity to meet the finalist organisations in the mall, hear how they are making a difference through sport and cast their vote for the organisation they believe deserves to be named the Power of Sport winner. Visitors are also encouraged to explore ways to get involved by joining, volunteering or supporting these clubs as they continue their important work across Mitchells Plain.

The 13 finalist organisations are 9Miles Project, Home Fighters Netball Club, House of Power Karate Academy, Just Planting Seeds, Karate Satori, Khaye Gymnastics Club, Lentegeur Volleyball Club, Play Sport4Life, Red Rovers FC, Tafelzucht, Woodlands Archery Academy, Westridge Football Club and Westridge Yankees.

The atmosphere will be brought to life with lucky draw giveaways for shoppers who vote. City Afro Bucket Drumming will perform live on Saturday 18 and Saturday 25 July, adding vibrant entertainment to the celebrations.

Every vote helps shine a spotlight on organisations that are inspiring hope, developing young talent and strengthening the local community. Liberty Promenade encourages residents to come along, support their favourite finalist and experience the Power of Sport in action this Mandela Month.

For more information on the finalists and campaign, visit libertypromenade.co.za or follow Liberty Promenade on social media.

The post Mitchells Plain Invited To Vote for Local Sporting Heroes appeared first on Alt News Network.

Johannesburg, 14 July 2026: Bedford Centre is marking Nelson Mandela Month by allowing shoppers to make a genuine difference through two community initiatives that support local charities and bring people together through simple acts of kindness.

Throughout July, visitors can help create handmade blankets for those in need as part of the return of the much-loved Hooked on Kindness campaign, before browsing for their next great read at the annual Germiston SPCA Book Fair, where every purchase helps care for vulnerable animals.

Stitching Together a Warmer Winter

From 13 to 19 July, Bedford Centre will once again partner with the dedicated volunteers from Edenvale KnitsWits for “Hooked on Kindness.” The stand, located on the upper level opposite Spur, invites shoppers to view beautiful handcrafted blankets, learn something new and contribute towards a cause that brings warmth to those who need it most.

Whether you’re an experienced knitter, a keen crocheter or someone who has always wanted to give it a try, all are welcome. Visitors can donate knitted or crocheted squares, purchase wool for the KnitsWits team, take a seat and learn the basics from the volunteers.

Every square crafted this week will become part of a handmade blanket that will help keep vulnerable members of the community warm during the colder months.

Books That Give Back

The spirit of giving continues on Friday, 25 July, when the popular Germiston SPCA Book Fair returns to Bedford Centre from 10h00 to 14h00.

Taking place on the Lower Level opposite Pick n Pay, the book fair offers hundreds of pre-loved books from just R10 each. From bestselling novels and children’s favourites to cookbooks, biographies and unexpected treasures, something is waiting to be discovered on every table.

Every book sold helps raise vital funds for the Germiston SPCA, supporting its ongoing work rescuing, caring for and protecting animals in the local community.

“Nelson Mandela Month reminds us that making a difference doesn’t always require grand gestures,” said Bedford Management. “Sometimes it starts with learning a new skill, donating a ball of wool or buying a second-hand book. These are simple ways for people to come together, support local organisations and help make a real difference in the lives of others.”

Whether spending a few minutes learning to crochet, contributing towards a blanket or taking home a pre-loved book, Bedford Centre invites shoppers to become part of a month of generosity, connection and community.

For more information about Bedford Centre, its stores and upcoming events, visit Bedford’s website bedfordcentre.com  or follow @bedfordcentre on social media.

The post Bedford Centre Celebrates Mandela Month With Community Giving appeared first on Alt News Network.

Johannesburg, 7 July 2026 – A community-driven initiative supported by Eastgate Shopping Centre has transformed the Children’s Fun Corner at Bedfordview Library into a more welcoming and inspiring space. The refreshed area encourages children to read, explore their creativity and feel at home while promoting a lasting love of literacy.

Officially unveiled on Saturday, 4 July, the upgraded space brought together local schools, community stakeholders and library representatives in a combined effort to create a meaningful and lasting impact for children and families who regularly use the library.

A Brighter Space for Young Readers

As part of the refresh, outdated wall art, furniture and structures have been removed and some items restored to create a lighter and more inviting environment. The upgraded Children’s Fun Corner also introduced new seating for children, including colourful chairs and bean bags, alongside a decorative feature element designed to create a dedicated and welcoming identity for the space.

At the heart of the refresh are seven custom-painted canvas murals created by learners from local schools, adding colour, imagination and a sense of community ownership to the library environment. Participating schools included Bedfordview Primary School, Reddam House Bedfordview, St Andrew’s School for Girls, St Benedict’s College and St Luke’s College.

By investing in the Children’s Fun Corner, Eastgate aims to support literacy and early learning by helping create an educational environment where children can read, imagine and engage comfortably.

Celebrating Community and Creativity

To mark the completion of the revamp, Eastgate hosted a small unveiling event at the Bedfordview Library, attended by community stakeholders, local leadership, library representatives, and guests. The occasion included a special performance by the Reddam School orchestra, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

The unveiling also coincided with the monthly Children’s Fun Corner event, held on the first Saturday of every month. Hosted by Adv Mona Naidoo and Vis Naidoo, the themed programme invites children and their parents to enjoy a morning of storytelling, learning and creative activities designed to encourage a love of reading. The 4 July event was particularly special, as it marked the third birthday of the Children’s Fun Corner reading programme, allowing regular attendees to celebrate the milestone in the newly upgraded space.

“Libraries are incredibly important spaces where children can learn, imagine and build a lifelong relationship with reading,” said Saadiyah Kahn, General Manager at Eastgate Shopping Centre. “We wanted to contribute to creating an environment that feels brighter, more welcoming and encourages young readers to spend time discovering the joy of books,” she added.

For more details and regular updates on Eastgate, its stores, events and projects, visit eastgateshops.com or follow Eastgate on social media @eastgateshoppingcentre.

The post Eastgate Refreshes Bedfordview Library Children’s Reading Space appeared first on Alt News Network.

The post Hisense SA Launches Soweto Soccer Pitch for Future Talent appeared first on Alt News Network.

Cape Town, 13 May 2026: As Mandela Day 2026 approaches, Liberty Promenade Mall is calling on residents across the Western Cape to recognise the often-overlooked sporting heroes making a real difference in their communities. Through its latest initiative, “The Power of Sport,” the mall aims to honour coaches, volunteers, mentors and grassroots sports organisations that are using sport as a tool to build confidence, encourage discipline, strengthen unity and create opportunities for South Africa’s youth.

Building on the success of previous community-focused Mandela Day initiatives, this year’s initiative recognises the individuals and programmes creating meaningful social impact through grassroots sport in their communities.

From local soccer fields and rugby clubs to netball courts, tennis programmes, chess groups, athletics initiatives, dance organisations and community fitness projects, the mall aims to shine a light on the people creating safer spaces, stronger support systems and positive opportunities for young people through sport.

Celebrating Community Champions

South Africans share a deep passion for the sport and love the way it unites communities and inspires resilience. Through The Power of Sport, Liberty Promenade is recognising the everyday sporting heroes whose commitment extends far beyond the game itself.

Shoppers are invited to nominate deserving sports organisations, coaches, teams, mentors and youth development initiatives that are making a positive difference in their areas until 29 May 2026.

Shortlisted nominees will form part of a special Mandela Day exhibition inside the centre later this year. The exhibition will feature striking portraits, team stories and community achievements, showcasing how sport continues to change lives and create safer, healthier futures for young people and families.

One selected sports organisation or initiative will receive support of up to R20 000 towards equipment, facilities, programme growth or development needs.

“Sport has an incredible ability to bring people together and create positive change in communities. Through this campaign, we want to recognise the organisations dedicating their time and energy to uplifting young people and creating opportunities through sport,” said Brenda Bibby, general manager at Promenade. “These are the local champions helping build confidence, leadership and connection every single day.”

How To Nominate a Sporting Hero

Community members can nominate a local sports organisation online via the Mandela Day – PowerOfSport Application | Liberty Promenade, or follow Liberty Promenade on Facebook, Instagram @libertypromenademall_za, and TikTok @libertypromenademall.

Nominations close on 29 May 2026. A verification process will be conducted to confirm the authenticity of all submissions.

The post Liberty Promenade Spotlights Western Cape Sports Heroes appeared first on Alt News Network.

East London, 13 March 2026: This Human Rights Day, Vincent Park is opening its doors to the community for a day of learning, understanding and connection at its Autism Awareness Fair. In partnership with the ELAN – Empowering Lives, Affirming Neurodiversity organisation, formerly known as the East London Autism Network, on Saturday 21 March, the centre invites families, caregivers and shoppers to explore practical support, meet experts and join conversations that celebrate neurodiversity.

Learn from Experts and Explore Support

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet a range of professionals, including speech therapists, counselling services, drama facilitators, a qualified yoga specialist and representatives from Autism South Africa and Makaton. The University of Fort Hare and local sensory toy providers will also be present, offering practical advice, tools and experiences that support autistic individuals and their families.

Breaking Myths and Encouraging Understanding

The fair will also tackle common misconceptions about autism, such as the idea that meltdowns are bad behaviour, autism looks the same in everyone, or autistic people do not want friends. Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, visitors can gain insight, ask questions and feel confident supporting the autistic community.

“ELAN is thrilled to be hosting the fair at Vincent Park. We are grateful for the support we have received from the centre and its staff. We hope that all visitors will gain valuable knowledge about autism,” shared Claire Macdonald, co-founder of ELAN.

Vincent Park hopes the event will spark meaningful conversations, reduce stigma and make support more accessible. By hosting the fair in the centre, families can connect with trained professionals in a welcoming space while enjoying the community around them. Attendance to the fair is free.

Visit the mall’s website for more information: vincentpark.co.za or follow the mall on social media for regular updates.

The post What Families Can Learn at Vincent Park’s Autism Awareness Fair appeared first on Alt News Network.