UWC Commemorates Mandela Day Through Sport with Community Soccer Event
Although the University of the Western Cape (UWC), the Clicks Group, and the Ubuntu Football Academy may be different entities, they share a common goal: to develop well-rounded individuals who succeed and give back to their communities.
This shared mission underscored the importance of the Mandela Day activity at Ubuntu’s premises in Masiphumelele, Fish Hoek.
The Clicks Helping Hand Trust hosted the event and was supported by UWC’s Department for Institutional Advancement (IA).
The Trust has long supported the academy and has worked with the University on initiatives, including Women’s Day and sanitary pad drives for women students.
The academy has already been a feeder of student-athletes to UWC, and one of their former top players is currently playing for the UWC men’s football team.
Dhevan Pillay, from the Clicks Helping Hand Trust, explained that the handover of training equipment on Thursday was aimed at highlighting the excellent work done throughout the year.
“We believe in supporting people, not only from a health perspective but also from a wellness perspective, ensuring we have well-rounded individuals who go into the world, become leaders, and return to support their homes, teams, and communities after achieving success,” he said.
He added that the Ubuntu Football Academy aligned with the trust’s pillars of keeping South Africans active in football. Pillay also offered valuable career advice to the academy’s students.
He said: “Dream big, but remember, if you don’t act on your dreams, they remain just dreams. Hard work and perseverance are key to turning dreams into reality. Don’t be afraid of challenges; they are opportunities in disguise. Ubuntu is your family. Value these relationships. Together, you can achieve more than you could alone. Don’t be afraid to fail; learn from it, grow from it, and use it as a stepping stone to success.”
Professor Anesh Singh, Director of UWC’s Department of Institutional Advancement, shared his academic struggles in high school and early university due to his focus on cricket
He recalled: “When I failed my first and second years towards my degree, my mom sat me down and told me that in this world, people can take away your car, your house, your job, but they can never take away your education. My mom said cricket wouldn’t give me a career or put food on the table. So, I needed to prioritise my education because when everything else fails, I can always rely on my education.”
Prof Singh reminded the students that injuries could end their sporting careers.
“You need to have something to fall back on. This is why the University of the Western Cape is crucial. We strive to balance your life between being a student and pursuing your passion for sports. At UWC, we provide support services to help you achieve your dreams by combining your sport and education.”
Prof Singh later held a workshop with a few of the academy players to offer them advice on applying to university and potential career paths.