As South Africans prepare to commemorate Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July, the South African Naval Military Veterans Association (SANMVA) (Navy) pauses to remember one of our own whose passion for serving others continues to inspire us.
Remembering Rodney Neves
For many within SANMVA (Navy), this time of year brings memories of our dear colleague and friend, Rodney Neves. Rodney was the driving force behind our annual “67 Minutes for Nelson Mandela” initiative. His unwavering commitment to community service embodied the values that Nelson Mandela lived by—compassion, selflessness, and the belief that every person has the power to make a difference.
Although Rodney is no longer with us, his vision lives on. The initiative he established has become a proud tradition within our organisation, reminding us that true leadership is measured by the lives we touch.
On Saturday, 18 July 2026, Rodney’s legacy will once again come to life as SANMVA (Navy) continues this meaningful mission of service.
“The greatest tribute we can pay Rodney is not only to remember him, but to continue the work he so passionately began.”
Mandela International Day Food Drive 2026
Nelson Mandela International Day is celebrated around the world each year on 18 July, honouring the life and humanitarian legacy of Tata Madiba. His message of service and Ubuntu continues to inspire millions to dedicate 67 minutes to making a positive difference in their communities.
In this spirit, SANMVA (Navy) is once again hosting its annual Mandela Day Food Drive Initiative.
Our members and volunteers will dedicate their 67 minutes to collecting, sorting and packaging non-perishable food items at Building 99, SAS Wingfield, before distributing them to community organisations and vulnerable families in and around Cape Town.
Every food parcel prepared represents hope, dignity and compassion for those who need it most.
How You Can Help
We invite all SANMVA (Navy) members, their families, friends and supporters—both in South Africa and abroad, particularly in Australia and Canada—to become part of this important initiative.
You can support us by:
- Donating non-perishable canned or packaged food items.
- Making a financial contribution towards purchasing additional food supplies.
- Sharing this initiative with family, friends and colleagues.
No contribution is too small. Together, our collective efforts can make a meaningful difference in the lives of many.
Food Drop-off Point
SANMVA (Navy) Office
Building 99, SAS Wingfield
Collection Days:
Tuesdays and Thursdays
Collection Times:
09:30 – 13:00
Financial Donations
Those wishing to make a financial contribution may use the following banking details:
Account Name:
South African Naval Military Veterans Association
Bank:
First National Bank (FNB) – N1 City
Account Number:
63074772336
Branch Code:
250655
Reference:
Your Full Name
Continuing the Spirit of Service
Military service may end when the uniform comes off, but service to our communities never truly ends.
Through initiatives like the Mandela Day Food Drive, SANMVA (Navy) continues to uphold the values of duty, compassion and community that define both our veterans and the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela.
As we gather this Mandela Day, we do so in honour of two remarkable legacies: that of Nelson Mandela, who taught us that service is our greatest responsibility, and Rodney Neves, whose vision continues to unite us in giving back.
Together, we can ensure that their legacy lives on—one act of kindness, one food parcel, and one life touched at a time.
Thank you, Rodney.
Your passion, dedication and spirit of service continue to inspire us all.
EXCO
South African Naval Military Veterans Association (SANMVA) – Navy