VUKA is the Zulu word for 'wake up' or 'awakening' and also the name of the South African Rugby Legends (SARLA) grassroots rugby programme for youth. The programme has been providing substantial assistance to thousands of disadvantaged youths and includes providing underprivileged youths with rugby jerseys. Started by Gavin Varejes and endorsed by the South African Rugby Union (SARU), VUKA initially operated the jersey initiative mostly in the Cape province. The programme has now also embraced KwaZulu Natal to be included in the annual sponsorship. The recent handover was well received by both KZN and WP school principals and youths.
KZN Handover
During the handover, the sponsor Smith's Manufacturing was on hand to assist in Clermont, just outside Durban. Referee Archie Sehalko and rugby player Hector Gumede were there to provide some words of encouragement to the young players and to cheer them on as they played their first game in their newly received jerseys that very afternoon. Some of the schools that benefited from this initiative are Wybank, Umqhele, Isithikozile and Ilanga.
WP Handover
In the Western Province handover, SARLA representatives Dale Santon and Jessie Claassen presented the jerseys to excited teams throughout the Cape Flats. For the very first time, the jerseys included each school's individual colours, providing further joy to the boys. Spes Bona, Alexander, Saxonsea, Atlantis and Florida were some of the schools included in the handover.
The Jerseys
The initiative was sponsored by Smith's Manufacturing and the jerseys were produced by the South African label Flya Sportswear, a Time Clothing label that also holds the Proudly South African tick. Gavin Varejes and SARLA are most grateful to everybody that made this undertaking possible. It is only through sponsorship, manufacture, design and distribution of the jerseys that the continuing success of this very important initiative can be assured.
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