The late statesman Nelson Mandela stood for dignity and humanity, and that is exactly the ethos of the Souper Troopers, a Woodstock-based organisation.
It is fitting then that a new long-imagined mural of Nelson Mandela is now proudly displayed on Souper Troopers’ Humanity Hub, on the corner of Nelson Street.
Souper Troopers works with and advocates for those living on the streets. Its Humanity Hub provides a range of services to help homeless people transform their lives.
The expansive mural was brought to life by the very well-known South African mural artist Stefan Smit.
Kerry Hoffman, the founder and executive director of Souper Troopers, said it had been two years in the making.
“We moved into this building in August 2022. Since moving in we wanted to find an artist that would see the opportunity to collaborate with us and the work we do as a pro-bono project and raise awareness about what we do.
“Since last year, we’ve been on this journey figuring out what will be painted and all the permits needed.”
Hoffman said they are actively advocating for people to get off the streets.
“Homeless people who come to us wanting to change are Troopers. Our psycho-social development model (CAST model) addresses the holistic needs of each individual within our ethos of dignity, love and respect, and we are proud to be making a sustainable difference in the lives of so many Troopers.”
In recent years, the organisation has developed the successful African Worry Dolls programme, which is aimed at uplifting Troopers making of one-of-a-kind miniature dolls from recycled materials.
The dolls are sold locally and overseas, as far afield as New York and Paris. They help develop important job skills as well as revenue for the services Souper Troopers provide.
According to Hoffman, there is no human being better than Mandela worthy of being a beacon of hope to preside over The Humanity Hub.
“Having Nelson Mandela on our building as an eye-catching symbol of what we stand for, and we are here to raise awareness of the people on the street that are often neglected, unseen and treated in an undignified way.”
Smit said his inspiration for the mural was to spread joy.
“The artwork is something that radiates light and I hope it will put a smile one everyone’s face.”
He explained he chose the colours based on the organisation’s ethos, which is to uplift.
Smit said the painting was particularly significant since it was his second work of the late statesman.
“I painted at Londolozi. I did that because that was apparently the place he liked to visit after he was released from prison, so there is a special connection there. I thought that Souper Troopers have a connection in terms of the work that they do.
“I thought that would be an amazing opportunity. There’s an element of synchronicity there, such as the fact that they are based on Nelson Street.”
According to Smit, the mural has been positively received among the residents.
“The response from the community has been amazing. I’ve had people stop to admire and share what they think of the piece.
“The point of the mural is meant to be a unifying piece of artwork, something that anyone can look at and appreciate.”
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