OD11 digital HR - Flipbook - Page 82
VUSA UPDATE
ROYAL OPPORTUNITIES
The VUSA Rugby and Learning Academy, which
uses rugby as a driving force to change the lives
of underprivileged children, attracted headlines
in 2024 with a visit from Prince William. Hardworking COO Nikki Matthews paints a picture
of the transformative effect of the programme
Y
andisa stands on the rugby
field, a quiet presence
among the laughter and
energy that surrounds him. Five
years ago, when he joined the
VUSA programme, he might have
watched from the sidelines, unsure
of his place. Today, he holds the
ball with confidence, scanning the
field with the keen eye of a player
who has found his rhythm.
Yandisa is one of more than
200 children who walk through
the gates of the VUSA Rugby and
80 | THE OLD DIOCESAN
Learning Academy each week. For
them, VUSA is more than a sports
field or an after-school programme.
It’s a place of belonging, acceptance,
opportunity – and fun.
The past year has been a defining
one for VUSA. We have witnessed
extraordinary moments, from
the incredible impact of the Atlas
Digibus to the unwavering support
of the Bishops community.
A highlight, in November, was
the visit of HRH Prince William
to South Africa as part of the
Earthshot Prize, a global initiative to
drive climate solutions. He elected
to visit the Atlas project in Ocean
View, and we were invited to
showcase the impact of the work
we’re doing with Coronation on the
Digibus in a space where education
and technology come together to
create opportunities for children.
The children had no idea who their
“special guest” would be; most were
convinced they’d meet Siya Kolisi.
Meeting a real prince was a close
second! Prince William sat beside
