Empowering local change: Six community leaders honoured
A community-driven initiative, the My Jive, My Hood campaign, has identified six outstanding individuals as ‘community mayors’: a symbolic title celebrating their dedication to uplifting their neighbourhoods. While these are not official governmental positions, these individuals have been selected for their passion and commitment to grassroots development, showcasing how local leaders can drive positive change.
This campaign highlights the power of community involvement, providing a platform for residents to champion initiatives that address local needs: from youth empowerment and education programmes to sustainability, safety and animal welfare projects.
By fostering a spirit of local leadership, the campaign enables everyday people to have a direct impact on their communities.
Meet the 6 Community Mayors and their chosen causes:
- Cleo “Aunty Patty” Arnoldus: representing Lavender Hill (The Hill) – Dews of Quietness
- Khanyisa “Uncle Jerry” Zali (pictured): representing Zonnebloem (Slaapstad) – Stepping Stones Children’s Centre
- Zusakhe “Sister Lungi” Mndaweni: representing Kraaifontein (Kraaibak) – Bright Stars Safe Home
- Zinidean “Brother Mo” Koopman: representing Paarl-East (Pêril) – Butterfly House
- Mellisa “Mama Zodwa” Dyers: representing Swellendam (Swellies) – Community Action Partnership
- Zelda “Tata Sipho” van Niekerk: representing Langebaan (Die Baan) – Langebaan Animal Care
These individuals were chosen based on the impact and feasibility of their proposed community projects, which range from skills development workshops and educational support to sustainability, safety and animal welfare programmes. Each of them will now rally support to bring their vision to life, ensuring their communities have a direct say in shaping local change.
Driving economic and social growth at a grassroots level
JiVE Cooldrinks introduces these community leaders as part of the My JiVE, My Hood campaign, a groundbreaking initiative that amplifies the voices of everyday heroes making a tangible impact. As a brand deeply rooted in the Western Cape, JiVE has always supported and been at the heart of its individual communities, championing local growth and resilience.
With South Africa facing economic challenges, this initiative directly supports grassroots organisations and small enterprises, ensuring investment reaches the heart of local communities. Encouraging consumer participation further strengthens these efforts, fostering job creation and long-term sustainability.
The campaign reinforces the notion that real change begins at the community level and that local action can have a lasting impact beyond individual neighbourhoods.
Community participation: Support the mayors’ projects
Voting lines have been open since 15 January 2025, giving Western Cape residents the opportunity to vote for the community project they believe should receive the grand funding prize. By purchasing a JiVE cooldrink, scanning the QR code, and entering the unique code found under the cap, consumers can actively contribute to shaping the future of their communities while also standing a chance to win exciting instant prizes.
Recognising local champions
The My JiVE, My Hood campaign serves as a reminder that true transformation starts from within. These six community mayors embody the resilience, passion and ingenuity that drive South Africa forward. By giving them a platform to effect change, the campaign is not only celebrating their efforts but also inspiring others to take action and invest in their neighbourhoods.
Join JiVE in celebrating these local change-makers and be a part of the movement that empowers communities from the ground up.
