Rugby star Damian Willemse and Mother become beacon of hope for their Cape Town Community

This Saturday, as rugby star Damian Willemse runs onto the pitch for the Rugby World Cup final at the Stade de France, his home town, Strand, 50km from Cape Town, will echo with cheers louder than any part of South Africa. Damian and his mother, Charlotte Willemse, are treasured figures in their small town located on the False Bay coast.

However, their home town, often seen as a holiday locale, harbors a stark contrast. Due to the persisting socioeconomic divide, a significant impoverished community also calls Strand their home.

Recognizing this need within their own backyard, the Willemse family decided to act. Charlotte Willemse introduced a feeding scheme from her home, providing meals for the denizens of Strand; a service in which her sons, Damian, and his brother, former Western Province and Stormers hooker, Ramone Samuels were raised to appreciate. Funded primarily by Damian Willemse, the scheme witnesses people from all areas in the Strand flocking in. In addition to the meals, Charlotte also ensures families have provisions to last a couple of days.

The besetting pandemic further fueled the need for this program. Damian, seizing the opportunity to serve his community, collaborated with the Be The Difference Foundation. Despite the pandemic tapering down, the Willemse family recognized the persistent necessity of their services, perpetuating the feeding scheme indefinitely.

Even with his on-field accolades, including being part of the Springboks' 2019 World Cup winning squad and playing a lead role in Stormers victorious United Rugby Championship campaign last year, Damian remains grounded.

Despite his relocation, the people of Strand continue to support Damien and his initiatives, demonstrating their gratitude and respect. As Damian gears up for this weekend's showdown with New Zealand's All Blacks, Charlotte, their family, and the entire Strand community, stands united in their pride and support of their local hero.