‘The Great Executive Showdown’: A day of fun at UCT’s fundraising challenge

On a sunny Friday afternoon at the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Cricket Oval, a spirited atmosphere enveloped the field as the UCT Development and Alumni Department (DAD) hosted the second inaugural UCT Day, a fun-filled fundraising event in support of key student support initiatives.

This year, the spotlight was on a most unusual spectacle: university executives trading their polished suits for athletic gear, diving headfirst into a series of hilariously challenging games alongside students and staff. The juxtaposition of serious leadership and spirited fun was a sight to behold, and laughter echoed across the grounds as the usually buttoned-up administrators took on inflatable obstacles, electronic bulls, and tug-of-war ropes.

As the event kicked off, the air buzzed with excitement. The inflatable obstacle course loomed large, a bright and colourful contraption that promised both chaos and camaraderie. Executives who typically dominated boardroom discussions were now eyeing the inflatable walls with a mix of determination and trepidation.

With a starting whistle, they were off! The sight of university leaders bouncing clumsily through inflatable tunnels and tumbling over barriers was nothing short of comical. Spectators – students, and staff – could hardly contain their amusement, cheering on the executives as they navigated the course with varying degrees of success.

Testing mettle

Next up was the electronic bull ride, a challenge that further tested their mettle and balance. The competitors climbed aboard the mechanical beast, determined to outlast each other in a battle of wills. One by one, they were flung off, laughter erupting from the crowd with each dramatic dismount. It was a joy to see these leaders exchanging competitive jabs and encouragements, showing that even the most accomplished of academics and leaders can also have a little fun and laugh at themselves.

The grand finale of the day was a classic tug-of-war. With ropes in hand, teams formed, blending students with executives to create a unified front against the opposing team.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the participation of the vice-chancellor, Professor Mosa Moshabela, who has only recently stepped into his role at UCT. With an infectious enthusiasm that quickly endeared him to the crowd, he embraced the challenge with a mix of determination and good humour.

One could only imagine the conversations he had had during his onboarding, likely filled with discussions about strategy and academic initiatives, not inflatable obstacles and mechanical bulls. Yet, here he was, laughing and cheering alongside students, clearly relishing the chance to connect with the university community in such an unconventional setting. His willingness to jump into the fray signalled to all that he was ready to lead with a sense of fun and camaraderie, proving that even the most serious of roles can embrace a bit of whimsy.

Ultimately, the day was not just about raising funds; it was about fostering community and breaking down barriers. Watching the university executives shed their formal personas in favour of playful competition was a reminder that leadership isn’t just about gravitas – it’s also about connection, humour, and the ability to embrace the unexpected.