FOUNDATION LAUNCHED TO SUPPORT OF BREAKING THE CYCLE OF POVERTY

In a world where inequalities persist and poverty cycles are often challenging to break, the 21st Century Foundation was launched at the start of August 2023 as a beacon of hope dedicated to positively impacting underserved communities in South Africa. Led by a passionate team of individuals, this non-profit entity has set its sights on nurturing academic growth, fostering entrepreneurial mindsets, and transforming the lives of learners residing in marginalised areas.

Ntombizone Feni, a leading member of the foundation and Executive Director and 21st Century - one of the largest Business and People Solutions consultancies in Africa – delves into the foundation's mission, initiatives, and what sets the organisation apart.

"The inaugural project of the foundation is "Education Uplifting Ikasi." This five-year partnership with Fons Luminis Secondary School aims to support and enhance opportunities for the school's learners. Key areas of focus include weekly tutoring for Grade 8 learners in Maths; Science & English, an annual Career and Entrepreneurial Expo, and assisting in supporting the teachers with continuous learning and capacity building as a culture.

Primary Goal and Purpose

"The foundation's primary goal is crystal clear: to consciously contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty. Our vision extends to fostering academic growth and instilling entrepreneurial mindsets among learners in underserved communities. Equally important is our commitment to building the capacity of teachers, ensuring that the future opportunities of these learners are broadened. 

Making a Positive Impact on the Community

"Collaboration is a crucial pillar of our strategy. Through strategic partnerships within the same community ecosystem, we ensure that our impact creates a collective force for positive change. Moreover, we seek to lead by example in increasing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts, catalysing change in South Africa.

"At the heart of our mission, the foundation aims to address inequality and disrupt the cycle of poverty. Our approach is comprehensive, working closely with teachers, parents, and the community. By nurturing academic excellence and an entrepreneurial spirit, we empower young minds, equipping them with the tools they need to unlock a brighter future.

"The 21st Century Foundation comprises dedicated individuals who are also employees of the mother company, 21st Century. Alongside me in leading the inaugural programme are Leanne Visser, Sharlene Herandien, and Theresa Blake, who lead various streams within the mother organisation and collaborate with external parties and entities to drive our mission forward.

Getting Involved and Supporting the Foundation

Individuals and organisations can play a pivotal role in supporting our initiatives:

Volunteer Your Time: Offer tutoring, mentoring, or event organisation.

Donate Financially: Contribute monetary donations toward specific project elements.

Sponsorship and Partnerships: Explore sponsorship opportunities or form partnerships.

In-Kind Contributions: Provide goods or services such as educational materials or technology.

Advocacy and Awareness: Raise awareness about our mission and advocate for education and community development.

Mentorship: Experienced professionals can provide mentorship to students.

Collaboration: Organisations can collaborate to create holistic, community-driven solutions.

Technology and Skill Sharing: Share technological resources and expertise.

“ 21st Century Foundation stands as an example of how individuals and organisations can unite to create lasting change in underserved communities. Our holistic approach, community-centred philosophy, and unwavering commitment make us a force for positive transformation in South Africa. To get involved or support our initiatives, get in touch with us and join the movement towards a brighter future,” concludes Feni.

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About 21st Century:

21st Century, a level 2 BBBEE company, is one of the largest Business and People Solutions consultancies in Africa, specialising in sustainable business solutions and underpinned by exceptional Analytics and Research capabilities, with a team of more than 60 skilled specialists, servicing over 1700 clients – including non-profit organisations, unlisted companies, government, parastatals and over two-thirds of the companies listed on the JSE. 21st Century offers bespoke business and strategy planning services, operating model and organisational design, creative reward practice modelling, change, stakeholder and culture management, training courses and comprehensive human capital and talent plans. 21st Century continues to offer solutions via a combination of virtual channels and on-site presence. 

21st Century has expanded its services to offer a full turnkey sustainable business and remuneration service. Beyond remuneration and reward consulting, 21st Century offers people and HR analytics; remuneration and HR training; change management services; talent and people solutions; and end-to-end organisational design and development.

21st Century has both national and international capabilities. We offer full-spectrum Human Capital services to sub-Saharan Africa & Middle East clients.

Issued By: The Lime Envelope
On Behalf Of: 21st Century
For Media Information: Bronwyn Levy
Telephone: 076 078 1723
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