On a warm February evening, the lights dimmed and laughter filled the room as alumni, students, staff and friends of the Durban University of Technology (DUT) gathered for a movie night. It was a powerful demonstration of what a community can achieve when united behind a shared purpose.

The Valentine’s Movie Night was supported wholeheartedly by DUT students, staff, alumni and friends of the University, each person contributing to something far greater than an evening of entertainment. Through the purchase of a ticket, they raised funds for the DUT Meals for Good campaign, an initiative created through a partnership between the Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit, the DUT Hotel School and Student Counselling.

Through this campaign, students in need receive one nutritious, freshly prepared meal and a bottle of water each day. For many students, this is not simply a meal. It is relief. It is dignity. It allows them to sit in a lecture hall and focus.

At the close of the evening, each attendee received an unblossomed desert rose plant, a small but deeply meaningful symbol of the night’s purpose.

Ms Ronelle Lyson, Alumni Relations Coordinator, reflected on its significance. She said, “The unblossomed desert rose represents our students. Just like this plant, they hold incredible potential within them. Through the DUT Meals for Good campaign, we are not simply providing a meal; we are creating the conditions for growth, dignity and success.”

Pictured: A pot plan unblossomed and blossomed which signifies the growth of DUT students.

She added that the desert rose is known for its resilience. It can survive harsh conditions yet blooms most beautifully when nurtured. “Our students are no different. They arrive at DUT with ambition, talent and dreams, but hunger should never be part of their academic journey. Today’s students walk the same path as alumni did, some carrying the invisible burden of food insecurity,” she said.

The Valentine’s Movie Night was a reminder that love for the alma mater is not merely sentimental. It is active. It is intentional.

Ms Lyson concluded, “The need remains. Every contribution, whether once-off or ongoing, directly supports a student who may otherwise struggle in silence. By supporting the DUT Meals for Good campaign, you are not simply donating towards a meal; you are investing in academic success, restoring dignity and nurturing potential. Together, we can ensure that every student has the nourishment they need to blossom, to not simply survive but to truly thrive.”

Those who wish to support this initiative may contact Ms Ronelle Lyson at ronellel@dut.ac.za.

Pictured: The Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit at the Valentine’s Movie Night.

Ronelle Lyson