Towering kindness during Mandela Challenge
- Wits University
Kindness didn’t just show up, it stood tall as Witsies marked Mandela Month with contributions of canned food towards the Wits Food Bank.
In a fun challenge, Witsies competed to build towers with their cans – the Advancement Division was crowned number one, followed by the Faculty of Humanities and the Registrar’s Office.
The event, held on 25 July at the start of the third semester, brought together students and staff in a shared spirit of generosity and playfulness. With the backdrop of Mandela Month – a time to honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy through acts of service – the Wits community embraced the challenge to support students facing food insecurity and financial hardship.
Friendly Rivalry, Real Impact
From colourful posters to strategic can-stacking, departments across the university transformed what could have been a simple donation drive into a celebration of unity and compassion. The Wits Food Bank, a longstanding initiative to support students in need, saw its shelves replenished.
While the Advancement Division’s carefully engineered can tower soared above the rest, the true winners were the students who will benefit from the stocked-up food bank.
The determined 'tower builders' were cheered in the back by supporters and dancers, adding to the lively atmosphere and social cohesion.
“The energy was incredible,” said one participant from the Registrar’s Office. “It wasn’t just about winning – it was about doing something meaningful, together.”
A delighted Karuna Singh, Manager of Student Support and Community Outreach at the praised the University community for living the Wits values and Ubuntu. “When we as staff and students give to those in need – we live the “Wits for Good” motto. Who better to benefit from this, than students who need support to successfully exit the university to change their lives and those of others for the better.”
The event ended in true African style - with rain - a sign that the event was a success and received well by the Gods.
The Wits Food Bank is operated by the Wits Citizenship and Community Outreach. Donations are welcomed throughout the year.
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