‘EBE’s Got Talent’ raises R5 000

Students from the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment (EBE) have shown, yet again, how much they care for one another’s success, this time through EBE’s Got Talent.

The EBE Undergraduate Student Council (EBESC) staged the talent show in early August to help raise funds for the faculty’s Students in Distress Fund.

In response to a shortage of external donations to the fund, EBESC corporate relations and sponsorships chair Ayanda Mafunda decided to organise the talent show to help cover the shortfall. Mafunda was assisted by the EBESC corporate relations and sponsorships and events and marketing sub-committees.

The initiative was a success, raising R5 000 for the fund. In 2015, when the fund was established, the EBESC was able to assist six students. In 2016, this number grew to 37 students and in 2017, 78 students were helped. Assistance is in the form of supermarket vouchers and contributions towards rent and transport.

“The show featured everything from acoustic covers to original rap and hip-hop songs, and even poetry.”

Peer support

The fund does not supplement existing financial aid and does not have to be repaid. The number of students who can be supported depends on the availability of funds and each case is considered individually.

Students from across the university were invited to perform in aid of their peers. The show featured everything from acoustic covers to original rap and hip-hop songs, and even poetry.

The Professional Provident Society sponsored the food and provided gifts for the performers. Mary Hilton, EBE’s communications and marketing manager, was always available for consultation and the faculty’s web content manager, Candice Lowin, was the photographer for the evening. 

Those looking to contribute to the fund are encouraged to read more on the faculty’s website or contact Hilton.