Ubuntu Pop-Up Coffee Bar Initiative

 

The Ubuntu Outreach Programme, an initiative of the Faculty of Law established in 2012, is rooted in the principles of compassion, dignity, and collective care inspired by Ubuntu “I am because we are.” While the programme has historically supported various community outreach initiatives, its current dedicated focus is the Ubuntu Pop-Up Coffee Bar, a campus-based intervention addressing student hunger and promoting student well-being.

 

The Ubuntu Pop-Up Coffee Bar provides immediate nutritional support to students in need through the distribution of tea, coffee (stock permitting), and peanut butter sandwiches. This initiative responds to the growing reality of food insecurity among students and aims to ensure that no student is left without basic support during their academic journey.

 

In response to electricity outages across the metro, the Faculty of Law, in partnership with the Student Nutrition Group has strengthened this commitment by expanding the Pop-Up Coffee Bar support. More than 250 students were served with warm beverages and sandwiches offering relief to those unable to prepare meals due to disruptions in basic services.

 

The initiative continues on a weekly basis, operating on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, while the Faculty of Education’s Sodla Sonke Project provides meals on Tuesday and Thursday, ensuring continuous support throughout the week. On a recent Monday alone, 130 students were served, reflecting the growing need and the powerful impact of collective care on campus.

 

The Pop-Up Coffee Bar is sustained entirely through the generosity of volunteers and donors. Every contribution directly supports students facing food insecurity and helps maintain consistent service delivery.

 

How you can help