On 30 August 2024, enthusiastic golfers and generous supporters gathered for the University of the Western Cape (UWC) Johannesburg Golf Day, with one clear goal in mind: raising funds for the Access To Success campaign that supports student bursaries.
The Access to Success bursary programme was launched in 2017.
The initiative was designed to provide financial support to academically deserving students who face financial challenges, helping them to complete their studies debt free.
The annual golf day, organised by the Department of Institutional Advancement, brought together more than 70 players, all united by a common cause – to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder the educational dreams of our youth.
The department expressed its gratitude to sponsors Siyakhula Sonke Empowerment Corporation (SCC), PSG Financial Services, and the Professional Provident Society (PPS), whose support kept our players refreshed at their watering tables and played a significant role in the day’s success.
Taking top honours for the day was the team from Maduka Resources (Pty) Ltd, consisting of Adv Stanley Jacobs, Frans Langfors, Willie Mntunga, and Boza Bosman. Their impressive performance was a testament to both skill and teamwork.
This year’s event marked a significant milestone in the growing participation of women golfers.
The number of women players has steadily increased, reflecting the inclusivity and rising enthusiasm for the sport.
Their presence not only heightened the competitive spirit but also highlighted the strides being made towards gender equality in golf during Women’s Month.
During the prize-giving ceremony, an unexpected yet heart-warming moment unfolded. The event turned into an impromptu auction of the prizes meant for the winners to raise additional funds for the UWC Women’s Football Team, which has qualified for the 2024 CAF Women's Champions League – making history as the first university to achieve this feat.
The auction quickly became the highlight of the evening, raising an impressive R42 000.
Director of Institutional Advancement, Professor Anesh Singh, in his welcome address, paid tribute to the late Professor Brian O’Connell, former Vice-Chancellor of UWC, whose recent passing left a significant void.
Prof Singh also encouraged the players to dig deep into their own pockets and to introduce us to businesses who could help send our Women's football team to Morrocco.
As the sun set on the memorable day, participants left not just with the satisfaction of a great round of golf, but with the knowledge that their efforts had contributed to something truly meaningful.
The funds raised will unlock opportunities for students who might otherwise struggle to continue their education, proving once again that when we stand together, we can change lives.
