The initiative brought together breakfast support, educational resources and a rugby clinic, giving learners an opportunity to develop new skills and connect with sporting role models.
Cape Town, South Africa (09 November 2026) – More than 800 primary school learners in Cape Town were given an opportunity to learn, play and be inspired through the Emirates Nourishment Programme, which brings together nutrition, education and the power of rugby to support young children.
The initiative, delivered in partnership with the Kolisi Foundation and European Professional Club Rugby, aims to help children overcome barriers to learning and reach their full potential.
Access to regular meals is an important part of the programme, as proper nutrition can improve children’s concentration, classroom participation and overall readiness to learn.
The wider initiative aims to provide approximately 400,000 breakfasts annually, supporting around 2,000 children each year through schools and early childhood development centres in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. Since its launch in June, more than 35,000 breakfasts had been delivered by the end of September.
Rugby was also a major part of the day’s programme, with DHL Stormers players joining the learners for an interactive coaching session. Siya Kolisi, Lukhanyo Vokozela, BJ Dixon, Markus Muller, Ruan Ackermann, Leolin Zas, Vernon Matongo and JJ Kotze introduced the children to the fundamentals of the game through fun drills and small-sided matches.
The session also highlighted the values that rugby can teach beyond the field, including teamwork, communication, resilience and problem-solving.
Stormers player Vernon Matongo said it was important for the team to give back, particularly after seeing the circumstances some of the children face.
“In a team, you get to know your teammates stories, and some players in the Stormers came from similar backgrounds. So, I think it’s very important to go and give back. Being able to contribute is massive, being able to see that was special for us. The kids from the programme also came to the game (against Bristol Bears) and it was very special to have them there.”
Creativity was another focus, with the children taking part in a workshop to make personalised charms for their backpacks using upcycled leather from aircraft. They also worked alongside Cape Town artist Skhumbuzo Salman to create a colourful mural at the school.
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The initiative is expected to run until at least 2030, with the aim of creating better opportunities for children through consistent nutritional support, educational resources and exposure to positive role models.
Through the involvement of the DHL Stormers, rugby has also become a way to connect with young learners and demonstrate how the values of sport can help build confidence and inspire them to imagine what is possible.
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