Overview
In 2020, as COVID-19 lockdowns disrupted traditional volunteering, Korbicom chose to lead with heart and innovation. Determined not to let Mandela Day slip by unmarked, they transformed their usual in-person initiatives into a vibrant and fully digital campaign: “Open your arms and hearts for a virtual Mandela Day!”
The challenge was clear: how to enable meaningful community impact, boost team culture, and stay safe — all while working remotely.
The Project
Partnering with Brownie Points, Korbicom launched a gamified, virtual volunteering campaign that empowered staff to choose missions that resonated with them — from home. Employees could browse causes, commit to good deeds, and log their participation, all through an intuitive online platform.
The 10 custom missions reflected a rich mix of empathy and ingenuity:
- Donate winter clothing to Night Haven Shelter
- Support children’s education via the Bhongolethu Foundation (donations, hula hoops, sanitiser)
- Recognise a colleague, plant something, help around the house
- Sponsor bed nights, teach a skill, or simply ask someone how they’re doing
Each action counted toward personal and team tallies, with Brownie Points awarded for participation. This turned social good into friendly team competition, building connection at a time when many felt isolated.
Success
- Launched 10 virtual missions tailored for remote, flexible participation
- Engaged 84 employees, company-wide
- Delivered a meaningful Mandela Day experience under lockdown
- Boosted morale, peer connection, and purpose during a difficult year
- Reinforced Korbicom’s identity as a company that leads with compassion and innovation
This campaign didn’t just adapt to crisis — it redefined what workplace volunteering can look like in a digital-first world.