In a remarkable humanitarian effort, dozens of professional chefs, culinary students, and community cooks came together in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Friday to prepare 67,000 liters of soup to be distributed to the needy. This initiative was launched in celebration of International Nelson Mandela Day, an annual event on July 18th that honors the legacy of the late leader and South Africa’s first Black president.
The day encourages individuals to volunteer 67 minutes of their time as a tribute to Mandela’s 67 years of public service. In this symbolic interpretation, the cooks turned that time into 67,000 liters of soup, transforming minutes into meaningful meals.
Cooks across the country contributed by preparing soup in their own kitchens, while the main efforts took place at the HTA School of Culinary Arts in Johannesburg. There, chefs chopped vegetables, added legumes, and seasoned their dishes to create hearty, flavorful soups, working tirelessly from early morning until 5:30 p.m.
Executive chef and chairman of the NGO Chefs with Compassion, James Khoza, shared:
“For us, the 67,000 liters represent the 67 minutes, but with a culinary twist. I made a lentil soup with vegetables and a bit of chicken. It's not your usual soup where you just boil everything I focus on the flavor and the quality as well.”
This initiative reflects the power of compassion and teamwork, showing how culinary skills can become a meaningful contribution to society. It turns the act of cooking into a generous and impactful service of love.
