Reimagining outreach as inreach: A study of white DRC students at Stellenbosch University

Abstract

This article explores how a reimagined social imagination of Inreach can impact whiteness as a cultural imagination among White Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) students at Stellenbosch University. Racialised identity formation within the DRC has historically reinforced a missional imagination shaped by whiteness. Inreach is a programme designed to address White fragility and White fatigue, and sought to cultivate transformative, cross-cultural engagement among students born post-1994. Findings show a significant shift in participants’ imagination of outreach to inreach – from individualistic and monocultural to more collective and inclusive. In particular, the collective external dimension of identity expanded, suggesting a redefinition of “us” that includes Black South Africans. The study contributes to reconciliation discourse and theological education by offering Inreach as a meaningful alternative to traditional outreach, promoting mutual, transformative engagement.