As part of Women’s Month celebrations, female students at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently gathered for Hoop Over a Cup of Tea, an interactive event organised by the Student Affairs Department to foster connection, support, and sisterhood. With the rising pressures of academic life, social adjustment, and mental health challenges, the gathering offered students a space to relax, share experiences, and feel part of a community beyond their classrooms.
The event was facilitated by Dr Gundo Nepfumbada, Social Worker; Sibusisiwe Komane, Educational Psychologist; Lesego Tsima, Social Worker; and Eunice Modiba, Administrative Officer. Together, they created a warm and informal atmosphere, guiding students through interactive games, painting exercises, and discussions that encouraged them to express themselves and connect meaningfully with their peers. “We wanted this to be a safe, friendly space where female students could engage freely—no pressure, no judgement—just real conversations and shared moments,” says Nepfumbada.
Students were welcomed with breakfast and invited to participate in activities that sparked creativity and conversation. Canvas painting allowed them to express their artistic sides, while writing messages of encouragement offered a way to support fellow students who might be facing challenges. The relaxed setting encouraged laughter, meaningful chats, and a sense of belonging that went beyond academic achievement. “The face-to-face interactions, the laughter during games, the quiet focus of painting together—all of this reminded students that they are not alone, that they belong, and that they are seen and heard,” says Tsima.
The primary aim of the event was to strengthen sisterhood among female students as a source of support. It encouraged collaborative thinking, improved communication skills, and created opportunities for friendships and future collaboration through study groups, joint projects, or club involvement. “Collaboration and support don’t just happen in lecture halls. Sometimes, it’s over tea, laughter, and shared creativity that the strongest bonds are formed,” says Komane.
Students left the event inspired and motivated. Musa Mulaudzi, a first-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) student, said: “The event was a great way to meet people and have meaningful conversations in a relaxed setting, which made the cold almost unnoticeable. I enjoyed the canvas painting the most since I got to express my artistic side.”
For Precious Betty Didintle Mangwane, also a first-year MBChB student, the highlight was seeing the impact of connection and encouragement: “For me, the highlight was seeing students open up and enjoy themselves in such a simple, friendly setting. It reminded me how important small moments of connection are, especially during stressful times. I was truly touched when one student said I was the woman they look up to because of my academic achievements—it means a lot to know that I can inspire others. I honestly would love to attend more of these kinds of events.”
Activities such as painting and writing messages of encouragement helped participants express themselves, build confidence, and strengthen empathy. Sharing personal journeys provided a sense of psychological safety, allowing students to feel valued and appreciated. The interactive games also promoted goal-setting and collaboration, showing how fun activities can foster meaningful engagement and personal growth.
The event created opportunities for genuine connection, enabling students to build friendships, support each other, and feel part of a larger community. “Creating informal yet meaningful opportunities for engagement is vital for building a strong, resilient student community,” says Modiba. Hoop Over a Cup of Tea, organised by the Student Affairs Department as part of Women’s Month, demonstrated that student engagement thrives when openness, respect, and shared humanity take centre stage. For SMU, the event highlighted the importance of sisterhood, collaboration, and connection—one cup of tea at a time.
By Dimakatso Modise
