At its heart, #Move4Maties is an inspiring community initiative that unites Matie alumni, parents, staff, students, and friends.

“We are all about staying active, fit, and having fun while making a meaningful impact,” says Alwin Mabuza, a fundraiser at the Development and Alumni Relations Division at Stellenbosch University.

“The initiative is not restricted to any one form of activity but instead encourages participants to join in through running, cycling, swimming, or any other sport or fitness challenge that fuels their enthusiasm. Whether it’s a marathon or a cycling race, our mission is clear: to stay healthy, build an active community, and simultaneously support our fellow Maties.”

The #Move4Maties initiative enjoys a notable edge in that it supports the belief that fitness and giving back go hand in hand. By using the energy and passion of the University’s extended community, #Move4Maties turns physical activity into a powerful tool for raising much-needed funds for students facing financial difficulties. The initiative gives participants a chance to stay connected to their alma mater, reconnecting and connecting with the broader SU community, while also making a lasting impact on the lives of current students.

The need for such an initiative is clear. The #Move4Maties initiative addresses this need by channelling the collective energy of participants to raise funds that directly support students. This is not merely about fundraising, but also about giving back to the institution that many alumni credit for their success.

“Many students at Stellenbosch University struggle to afford their studies, meals, and accommodation due to financial challenges,” Mabuza adds. “By using our activeness to fundraise, we’re helping to give other Maties a shot at the future, just like we had.”

Since its inception, #Move4Maties has made a significant impact. The initiative has raised over R1,2 million, supporting various student-focused projects. In 2024 alone, several fundraising events have surpassed their targets, demonstrating the community’s commitment to making a difference. For instance, the Marching 4 Days for the Future of Polymer Science Campaign, which aimed to raise R30 000, exceeded its goal by collecting R40 250. Similarly, the Comrades Marathon team raised R92 812, far surpassing their R60 000 target.

Other notable campaigns include the Wheels of Opportunity Cycling Initiative, which raised R76 708, and the Cape Town Cycle Tour for the #Move4Food Campaign, which collected a remarkable R134 093, well over its initial R100 000 target.

Each of these efforts reflects the power of community-driven fundraising and the dedication of the Matie family to helping their fellow students.

Looking ahead, #Move4Maties continues to build momentum with upcoming events such as the Cape Town Marathon and the 947 Ride Joburg in November. These events provide even more opportunities for participants to get involved, whether as athletes or as supporters.

Mabuza continues: “You’re welcome to join and select the event that resonates with you. It’s about choosing how you want to make a difference.”

For those who are not able to participate in the actual sports events, there are still plenty of ways to support the cause. From spreading the word about the initiative to making a direct donation, the #Move4Maties community welcomes everyone who shares its vision of fitness, fun, and making a meaningful impact.

#Move4Maties is more than a mere fundraising campaign, it is a celebration of what it means to be a Matie. This initiative is about remembering the opportunities provided by SU, the friendships formed, and the lessons learned, and using those memories to fuel a new generation of students.

“We’re not just moving for ourselves. We’re moving for a cause, and that cause is to make a lasting impact on the lives of SU students.”

As Mabuza puts it, “Together, we’re moving for Maties and making a lasting difference in their lives.” With every step, pedal, or stroke, the Matie community is proving that fitness, togetherness, and giving back can create a brighter future for all.”