We are very pleased to announce that inspirational rape survivor and champion of victims of rape and abuse, Miss Jes Foord will attend Monday's opening Varsity Shield match on the Maritzburg campus (Mon 28 Jan, 4.30pm).

The UKZN Impi have been involved in fundraisers for the Jes Foord Foundation and recently undertook the refurbishment of the Jes Foord Foundation Community Centre ([click here for more info]. As a token of her appreciation, Jes will attend the match and address the audience at half time.

Rugby against Rape in association Jes have been an inspiration to women in this country, and her no-nonsense approach to dealing with the realities of rape and abuse provides a pillar of hope in an environment where abuse is often considered taboo.

Further good news is that the UKZN Impi secured the services of Hayley Hounsom to sing the national anthem before the opening match. Hayley is one of SA's outstanding sopranos and is studying music at the University. She also featured prominently in the 2011 version of "Idols". We are very pleased that Hayley has agreed to sing the national anthem on Monday.

- Jos Robson