As part of their #ShowUs campaign, FNB UKZN joined hands with St Martin Diocesan Home for Children, which symbolizes their commitment to giving back to the community, making a meaningful difference and inspiring positive change both on the rugby field and beyond.

Aligning well with the vision of the university which is to become the ‘Premier University of African Scholarship’, the campaign displays similar values to those which lie at the heart of the university culture.

Emphasizing the partnership’s positive impact, UKZN club manager Ben Vutha gives more detail on their outreach program at St Martin’s Diocesan Home for Children.

“Our initiative happened over some time, 14 March was the handover of the duvets. On 15 March the students from the home came through for a (FNB) Varsity Shield game. Then on 17 March the whole team went to the home to paint the boys’ dormitory and interactions through motivational discussion and games.

“We chose this specific home as it is in our community. We felt this would allow the boys to have a better connection with the NGO that is right on our doorstep.

“It (the outreach) has impacted on the boys when they saw what giving back to the less fortunate can have on them. They feel better and less stressed about what they are going through. Also, some (players) have indicated how can they make this programme last longer and we are certainly hoping that through this initiative we have lit a spark on the value of giving back and supporting those who are less fortunate. The boys from the home and our boys even warmed up together before our last game.”

By Mpendulo Letsoalo