UCT Chemistry with a Cause: 2024 Women's Month Charity Drive

The UCT Department of Chemistry celebrated Women’s Month 2024 by giving back to the community through two remarkable charity initiatives. This year’s theme, "Chemistry with a Cause," inspired staff and students to come together and make a meaningful difference.

The first project, led by Ms. Joanne Polzin and initiated in March, encouraged staff and students to knit or crochet toys and beanies. The response was overwhelming, with participants getting creative to produce a variety of handmade items. A special thanks to Ms. Blommie Filmer, a retired staff member who still contributed with a huge bag of adorable teddies and clothes, as well as Prof. Bourne and her mother (Granny Beth Bourne), who crafted dozens of beautiful toys and jersey-beanie sets. Significant other contributions also came from Italian exchange student Anita Ballerini, PhD student Nicole Teixeira, and PhD student Leah Amod's aunt, who made dozens of adorable booties and other clothes items to add to the pile.

In August, the department launched its second initiative—a toiletry drive that saw the generous donation of essential items such as sanitary pads, soap, toothpaste, face cloths, and toothbrushes. Through the collective efforts of staff and students, 24 toiletry packs were assembled, ready to support those in need.

The department chose two deserving charities for this year: St. Anne's in Woodstock and Mater Domini in Claremont, both of which offer refuge to pregnant, destitute, or abused women and their children. A total of 24 toiletry packs, 31 toy and beanie sets, 4 blankets, and 6 jersey/beanie sets were donated between the two homes.

A special thank you to Dr Dalielah Jappie, Mrs. Claire Lawrence-Naidoo, Ms. Laa-iqa Rylands, and Dr Roxanne Mohunlal for carefully packing the donated items. The department would also like to acknowledge Ms. Joanne Polzin, Ms. Laa-iqa Rylands, Dr Nabanita Chatterjee and Dr Dalielah Jappie for taking the time to personally deliver the donations. The success of this initiative was made possible by the kindness and generosity of everyone who contributed. Through "Chemistry with a Cause," the department continues to demonstrate the power of community spirit and the positive impact that can be made when people come together for a shared cause.