Bishops raises over R1m for Langa non-profit

The Bishops school community has raised more than R1 million during a 24-hour spinathon in support of the Vusa Rugby and Learning Academy in Langa.

More than 400 Bishops pupils and former pupils took part in four-hour spinning sessions during the round-the-clock Vusa Cycle Challenge on the school’s sports field from 9am on Saturday September 2 to 9am the following morning.

Vusa supports grassroots rugby training as well as literacy and numeracy programmes and after-school care at three preschools and five primary schools in Langa.

Now in its third year, the spinathon has steadily improved on its fund-raising efforts, according to Vusa’s executive director, Brendan Fogarty.

“In 2021, we raised R270 000, last year, we raised R500 000, and this year, our aim was to raise R700 000, and we reached over R1 million.”

Vusa’s programme manager, Makabongwe Kahla, who participated in the event, said it was a highlight on the organisation’s calendar.

Bishops principal Tony Reeler said events such as the Vusa Cycle Challenge reminded pupils about the importance of giving back.

“Each act of kindness sets in motion a powerful cycle of empowerment within our supportive Bishops community. The reciprocal benefits enrich not only those we reach but also our own Bishops pupils, fostering a sense of pride in their remarkable achievements.”