Students from IIE-Vega’s Durban campus recently came together for a team building initiative with a difference - combining creativity and community upliftment.
As part of an IIE-Vega Voice (student body) team building project, the group painted a mural on a metal container used by the occupational therapy team at the Sea Cow Lake Clinic in Kenville.
IIE-Vega is an educational brand of the Independent Institute of Education.
“We were approached by Savannah Prange, a fourth year occupational therapy student from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, who, with Asivenathi Plaatjie, is completing clinical hours at the clinic. She asked if our students could create a mural on the container used for therapy sessions," said Nadira Sewnunan, the Head of Academic Operations IIE-Vega Durban.
"Since we were planning a team building activity for our IIE-Vega Voice students, we decided to turn it into something more meaningful. The students collaborated on the designs, approved by the clinic management, and spent the day bringing the mural to life. The local children even joined in. The teamwork and enthusiasm were amazing."
Nivedita Dayanand, the Student Wellness Navigator at IIE-Vega Durban, said the project gave students the chance to make a real impact, while strengthening their own bonds.
“It was more than just painting - it was about connection, collaboration and giving back.”
Prange said: “There was no dedicated therapy space and previous students had to see patients wherever space allowed. When we got the metal container, we wanted to transform it into a welcoming therapy space and we thought, who better than IIE-Vega students to help us do that? We’re so grateful for their support.”
The occupational theraphy students provide services for a range of conditions, including stroke recovery, spinal cord injuries, arthritis and cognitive impairments, as well as paediatric therapy for children with developmental delays, autism and cerebral palsy.
The Sea Cow Lake Clinic was relocated from Durban North to Smithfield Road in Kenville by the eThekwini Municipality’s Health Unit. The new facility was set up using park homes and additional infrastructure to better serve the community.
“As artists, the container was our blank canvas. We envisioned how to make the space more welcoming. Throughout the day, you could feel the team spirit growing,” said Ryan Moodley, a third year IIE Bachelor of Experience Design student.