Watch: Bishops community raises more than R920k for Langa’s Vusa Academy

The Bishops Diocesan College school community, together with corporate partners, raised more than R920 000 during a 24-hour cycle challenge in support of the Vusa Rugby and Learning Academy.

On Friday, September 4, and Saturday, September 5, Bishops pupils, teachers, former pupils and members of neighbouring schools gathered to cycle on stationary bikes and run on treadmills in support of the Langa-based non-profit organisation.

Vusa provides a range of programmes, including rugby, early childhood development, after-school skills and literacy programmes for young people in Langa.

The challenge is now in its sixth consecutive year, with the Bishops community continuing to rally behind the organisation.

Funds support Vusa programmes

Vusa CEO Nikki Matthews said it was encouraging to see the community come together each year to support the organisation.

Matthews said the funds raised would contribute towards Vusa’s programmes, as well as the development and renovation of a building opposite its rugby field that forms part of its after-school programme.

Bishops' principal Tony Wheeler said the school community had once again supported the partnership.

“From a dream to help young people play rugby to a programme that includes rugby, numeracy and literacy programmes, early childhood development support and the two mobile learning support vehicles, Vusa has had a remarkable impact on so many young boys and girls,” he said.

Parents join the challenge

A group of Bishops parents known as the ECD Angels also took part in the challenge to raise funds for Vusa.

ECD Angels representative Aoife Doherty said the group has 40 members who also volunteer in Langa.

“Every Tuesday, moms meet at Bishops and carpool together to do various activities in Langa for the children, including painting, drawing, singing, baking and dancing,” she said.

Doherty said supporting Vusa was important because the parents could see first-hand how the funds were being used to benefit children.

Vusa pupils share their experiences

Vusa Academy child Litha Mjamba, who has benefited from the organisation’s after-school programme, was also present at the cycle challenge.

Litha said Vusa had helped her become more confident and independent.

The programme had also taught her important values, including “to care for each other, be compassionate and love one another,” she said.

Bishops' Grade 12 pupil Alex Beach has participated in the cycle challenge for the past five years.

“It is an important challenge. I have been to Vusa a few times, and they help the children. Many of them may not have the opportunities that we may, so this cycle challenge is powerful in raising a lot of money to support them,” he said.

For more information, visit Vusa Rugby and Learning Academy.