Alumna unveils giant blanket for charity
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Knitting initiative now in its seventh year reaches many during winter months.
Philanthropist and Wits alumna Carolyn Steyn (BA DA 1982) was central to the 2 754 blankets put together to make what will probably be the world’s largest blanket.
The blanket is to be entered for the Guinness World Records.
On 9 June 67 Blankets presented the record-sized blanket, which covered an entire rugby field with the image of the iconic Springbok and the South African flag on a school field in Steyn City. This year’s theme was “We are stronger together” and celebrates the Boks’ historic 2019 Rugby World Cup win. The blankets will be dismantled and donated to those who need them during winter.
67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela is a blanket-making initiative through knitting started by Steyn in 2013 shortly after the passing of former President Nelson Mandela.
Present at the event were John Smit, captain of the winning World Cup Springbok team in 2007, and Tendai Mtawarira, member of the 2019 World Cup Springbok team as well as former president Thabo Mbeki and politician Bantu Holomisa.
Steyn is an actress and a radio personality with over four decades of experience in the arts industry as well as a board member of the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra.
“The initiative has exceeded our wildest expectations, galvanising communities and bringing joy, hope and comfort to thousands of people around the world,” Steyn was quoted as saying.
“You know, I have such immense pride and admiration right now for this incredible achievement. Together we created the Biggest Bokke Blanket in the World. When our rugby heroes arrived home with that coveted Webb Ellis Cup, we went to work and knitted and crocheted our fingers to the bone making beautiful blankets in splendid green and gold,” Steyn wrote on the 67 Blanket’s Facebook page.
Mandela Day is celebrated on 18 July every year.
Watch the video showing the unveiling ceremony.