The eight participating teams in the 2023 FNB Varsity Shield competition are getting the chance to showcase their involvement in making a difference in the lives of their communities with the #ShowUs campaign.    

 FNB UFS Shimlas chose to link up with the Clarens Eagles, a rural school's rugby team and give the children the opportunity to experience rugby at a higher level. With support from the University of Free State, the children got the opportunity to attend the match between Shimlas and FNB CUT in Bloemfontein.  

The overall goal of the project? To make a positive impact on the lives of these children and help them to see new possibilities for their future.  

Shimla's captain and utility back Litha Nkula says it is a huge privilege to be regarded as a role model for the children. 

“I have been in that position, where you're at a stage where you are so keen and eager and want to become a better player, but you don't have the opportunity. It's such a huge platform to get people who are playing rugby at a semi-professional level to come to advise and coach. 

“To see and hear from them how much life-changing it can be is special. It allows them to become a better person as well as a better rugby player. To me, it means so much to be able to make a difference in someone’s life, because someone did that for me. 

“Being able to interact with these kids, gives us a lot of gratitude, especially seeing their hope and excitement in watching our games. 

“I just hope that they also realise that they can become better players and people through the program.” 

Varsity Cup is also calling on fans to take on the challenge and #ShowUs how you are choosing to lead the way to change in South Africa. Tag us in your social media posts and #ShowUs what you have done to make a positive impact in your community.