Letters of Hope and Pride - That Madiba Magic

The 46664 Bangle initiative has been bringing hope and dignity to people in South Africa, since its inception in 2008. Now we can see examples of the positive impact this official wrist bracelet in support of the 46664 campaign of the Nelson Mandela Foundation has had on the lives of those handcrafting the bracelet and its packaging.

In rural White River, an area in Mpumulanga, South Africa, with high statistics of HIV/AIDS, the 46664 Bangle project has created jobs and made a difference to people like Beauty Mazabuko, who says “It helps the people that are having HIV and AIDS. Also the children are affected by that disease.”

Sipho Mashego adds, “It is a great honour to be part of the Mandela Bangle; the man who didn’t want to shine in the limelight but known worldwide.”

This heartwarming collection of letters from some of the team who work on the 46664 Bangle, describes the significance and pride associated with their work. In the words of Mirriam Shabangu, “The bangles are made so that [Nelson Mandela’s] selfless contribution should be known by everyone, even the future generations.”

Clearly, it’s not just the income and skills the project provides, but it’s also the honor and pride felt to be associated with something so closely linked to Africa’s most favorite and most famous resident, Nelson Mandela. As Walter says, “You know what, everybody loves Mandela, and I do too.”

Read more in letters from Beauty, Mirriam, Nester, Sipho, Walter and Yvonne.

Buy a Bangle. Change a Life.

It's In Our Hands To Make A Difference

In the words of Nelson Mandela, “It is in your hands”. Every individual has the power to make a difference, no matter how small it may seem.

46664 was Nelson Mandela’s prisoner number and is now an official, global HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention campaign, inspiring individual and collective action towards an AIDS-free world.

The 46664 Bangle is the official wrist bracelet in support of this campaign, making a difference in the lives of others through the manufacturing of these beautiful pieces of jewelry in South Africa. Wearing a copper bracelet may not seem like a significant gesture, but each 46664 Bangle generates income in South Africa for communities where it’s most needed. Wearing a 46664 Bangle also serves as a daily reminder of the difference one person can make in the lives of others.

At its core, the 46664 campaign is about bringing hope and inspiration to all affected by HIV/AIDS. 46664 also raises awareness about social responsibility issues such as poverty, lack of education, gender inequality, lack of access to health facilities and the denial of economic opportunities.

46664 uses the universal connecting power of music, sport, entertainment and celebrity to educate, engage and empower those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS, and draws upon an extensive global network of ambassadors and celebrities to raise funds for the many projects it supports.

The 46664 Bangle - it’s on your wrist, and it’s in your hands.