As part of the FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield ShowUs CSI campaign, FNB Maties has stepped up to tackle one of the most pressing challenges faced by students—food insecurity. Through the Maties Meal Initiative (MMI), this student-led program at Stellenbosch University is committed to ensuring that hunger does not stand in the way of academic success.

No student should have to choose between pursuing their dreams and having a meal. Inspired by similar initiatives at other institutions, the Maties Meal Initiative was developed through extensive research and stakeholder engagement. The goal? To provide students in need with at least one meal a day, restoring dignity and giving them the energy to focus on their studies.

MMI works closely with on-campus kiosks like Krotoa Cares and BASC, as well as external sponsors, to facilitate food supply efforts. The initiative officially launched on July 31, 2024, marking a major milestone in the fight against student hunger.

But Maties isn’t stopping there. Future plans for MMI include:

• Expanding meal distribution kiosks to reach more students.

• Mobilizing resources to increase meal accessibility, with the goal of ensuring all students have access to at least three nutritious meals a day.

• Implementing an improved shuttle service to help students at both the Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses access essential resources more easily.

Through ShowUs, FNB Maties is demonstrating that student support goes beyond the rugby field. By taking action in their community, they are showing what it means to uplift and empower future leaders. This initiative is more than a food program—it’s a commitment to ensuring that every student has the same opportunity to thrive, regardless of their socio-economic background.

The FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield ShowUs campaign continues to highlight the powerful ways in which university teams are driving change. FNB Maties’ dedication to tackling food insecurity is a shining example of the impact that collective action can have.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Maties Meal Initiative continues to grow and change lives, one meal at a time.

For more information contact:

matieshungerandfoodinsecurityworkstream@stellenbosch.onmicrosoft.com