UWC Rugby Partners with DKMS Africa to Tackle Blood Cancer
A Transformative Collaboration
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) Rugby team has embarked on a transformative journey through a meaningful collaboration with DKMS Africa, an organization dedicated to the fight against blood cancer. Rooted in UWC’s Academia, Sport, and Education Management (ASEM) and Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives, this partnership reflects the university’s strong commitment to driving social change beyond the rugby field.
Seabelo Senatla Leads the Initiative
Spearheading the initiative is DHL Stormers Rugby player and DKMS Africa ambassador, Seabelo Senatla, who visited the UWC Rugby team during their Varsity Shield home fixtures. Recognizing the strength and unity within the rugby community, Senatla saw an opportunity to inspire players to use their voices for a greater cause—raising awareness and encouraging potential lifesavers to register as stem cell donors.
“Rugby is about more than just the game; it’s about building a community and making a difference off the field. That’s why we approached UWC Rugby,”
Senatla explained.
“As part of their ASEM and CSI initiatives, I wanted to show them how they can use their platform for good. To me, heroism isn’t just about scoring tries—it’s about stepping up where it truly counts. By collaborating with DKMS Africa, they’re not only raising awareness but also actively encouraging individuals to register as potential lifesavers for patients battling blood cancer and blood disorders.”
UWC Rugby’s Commitment to Social Responsibility
UWC Rugby’s commitment to promoting social responsibility through sport aligns with this initiative, as emphasized by Head Coach Paul Treu. A former mentor to Senatla during his formative years, Treu endorsed the campaign, highlighting the impact rugby players can have in driving positive change.
“What Seabelo is doing with DKMS Africa is truly inspiring,”
Treu said.
“Bringing awareness to something as critical as blood cancer and stem cell donation is lifesaving work. As athletes, we have a platform, and it’s important to use it for causes that matter. I believe our players have a unique opportunity to spread this message further, not just among their teammates, but within their communities and beyond. Watching Seabelo grow into the leader he is today proves how sport can be a force for good. The team can learn a lot from his example, not just about being better players, but about being better people.”
DKMS Africa Praises UWC Rugby’s Support
The collaboration was also welcomed by DKMS Africa’s Head of Corporate Communications and Community Engagement, Palesa Mokomele, who praised UWC Rugby for their support in spreading awareness about blood cancer and stem cell donation.
“Having UWC Rugby on board is a powerful step forward in raising awareness about blood cancer and stem cell donation. Their support is crucial in spreading our message and helping save lives. We are grateful to the team for embracing this cause,”
Mokomele said.
A Game-Changer Beyond the Field
Through this initiative, UWC Rugby is reinforcing its commitment to making a meaningful impact both on and off the field. By standing with DKMS Africa in the fight against blood cancer, they are not only raising awareness but also inspiring action, offering hope to patients in need, and proving that the influence of sport extends far beyond the game.