Words That Heal: The Next Chapter of Sandton City and the Riky Rick Foundation’s Joint Mental Health Initiative

Sandton City, in collaboration with the Riky Rick Foundation, launched a mental health initiative titled Words That Heal for the promotion of “artivism” during mental health month. The campaign aimed to open up conversations around mental health and encourages South Africans to share messages of hope and healing.

Now, Sandton City has launched phase two of the campaign. What began as a nationwide call to share words of encouragement has grown into a moving song of hope and an immersive in-centre experience that celebrates the power of creative expression in supporting youth mental wellness. Read on to find out more.

Sandton City's Words That Heal Pop-Up | What's on in Joburg

Phase 2: The Song That Speaks to Healing

Earlier this year, Sandton City shoppers were invited to share heartfelt voice notes of encouragement, things that they would like to say to people who are struggling. A selection of these messages, drawn from hundreds of submissions, have now been woven into a powerful original song, also titled Words That Heal, featuring the voice of Riky Rick. The hip hop song celebrates resilience and reminds listeners that no one is alone in their journey.

Available from 10 October 2025 across social media, streaming platforms and YouTube, the track reflects the campaign’s core message: that words have the power to connect, comfort, and inspire. Every person can play a part in turning awareness into action, making mental health a national conversation that continues beyond the month of October.

Words That Heal Pop-Up

Accompanying the song is a brand-new Words That Heal experiential pop-up activation, situated on the upper level next to BOSS in Sandton City.

Designed in collaboration with acclaimed artist Samurai Farai, the space showcases limited-edition T-shirts, hoodies, and scarves inspired by “artivism,” the meeting point of creativity and activism that Riky Rick championed.

All proceeds from these merchandise sales go directly to the Riky Rick Foundation, which supports youth mental well-being and creates platforms for creative expression as a form of healing. Visitors can also pledge their support online at www.rikyrickfoundation.co.za/pledges to contribute to mental health initiatives across the country.

When: Song can be streamed from 10 October. Pop-Up is open from Sunday, 9 November 2025
Where: Sandton City, 83 Rivonia Rd, Sandhurst, Sandton