TNF March Internal Newsletter
Reflecting on March with the Trevor Noah Foundation! 🌟 From laughter-filled moments to remarkable achievements, it's been an incredible journey.
Reflecting on a Month of Progress and Growth
Celebrating Human Rights Day: A Moment of Reflection
As March comes to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the significance of Human Rights Day in South Africa.
Human Rights Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for justice and equality in our country. It commemorates the Sharpeville massacre of 21st March 1960, a tragic event that sparked international outrage and ultimately led to the end of apartheid.
At the Trevor Noah Foundation, we honor the legacy of those who came before us by continuing their work to promote human rights and social justice. Through our educational programs and initiatives, we empower young people to become advocates for change in their communities.
As we continue to celebrate Human Rights Day in the years to come, let us recommit ourselves to upholding the values of freedom, justice, and equality for all. Together, we can create a brighter future where human rights are respected and protected for generations to come.
“Activism works. So what I’m telling you to do now, is to act. Because no one is too small to make a difference.” – unknown
Secondary Schools COP Recap: Fostering Collaboration and Driving Change
On February 29th, we had the honour of hosting our Secondary Schools Community of Practice (COP) meeting, and it was truly an extraordinary gathering! Teachers, principals, and our esteemed guest speaker, Ms. Nomfuzo Ntolosi (Associate Executive Coach,Mentor & Facilitator), gathering for a day filled with meaningful discussions and collaborative problem-solving.
Throughout the meeting, attendees participated in various activities aimed at tackling school challenges head-on. We witnessed firsthand the shared dedication of educators and our School Liaison Officers (SLOs) as they combined their expertise and insights to enact positive change within our schools.
The session commenced with an engaging crossword puzzle activity, fostering teamwork and unity from the start. Furthermore, we explored pressing social issues through an interactive World Café Activity. Topics such as leadership styles and parental involvement sparked animated discussions, resulting in the emergence of inventive solutions and shared perspectives.
As we concluded the session with reflection and action planning, it became apparent that we are empowered to effect positive change within our schools and broader communities. We are committed to cultivating a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and meaningful action.
We sincerely appreciate all participants for their active involvement and steadfast dedication to our Secondary Schools Community of Practices. Your contributions are invaluable as we collaborate to establish thriving learning environments for our youth and communities.
Embracing Community Stories: A Journey of Insight and Appreciation for Our Annual Report
As we diligently prepare for our forthcoming annual report, we wish to express our sincere appreciation to all who have contributed to this endeavour by providing invaluable information and assistance throughout the process. Your cooperation has significantly facilitated our progress and efficiency.
Recently, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in various communities to gather firsthand insights and narratives. Our journey commenced in Braamfisherville at J.B Marks, where we had the privilege of interviewing Fikile, a committed educator and one of our story catalysts through Khula Funda, with our literacy partner Nali’Bali.
Continuing our exploration, we visited Siyabonga Secondary School, engaging in illuminating discussions with the RCL members - Terrence, Gift, and Nompumelelo. Their impactful initiatives transcend the confines of the school, leaving a positive imprint on their community.
Our expedition then led us to Ivory Park, where we encountered inspiring Faranani Infrastructure Project (FIP) graduates, Cory and Themba. Both individuals manage their own enterprises outside of FIP, actively contributing to the enhancement of their community. They shared how FIP played a pivotal role in motivating them to embark on these ventures.
Although logistical constraints prevented us from physically visiting Eldorado Park, we were fortunate to engage in dialogue with Mr. Banks, Principal from Kliptown Primary School, whose insights provided valuable perspectives for our report.
These narratives of resilience, commitment, and community involvement will be interwoven into our annual report, highlighting the profound impact of our programs and collaborations. While we refrain from delving into intricate details here, rest assured that each story will be shared thoughtfully.
Once again, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all involved for your unwavering support and dedication. Together, we are crafting a report that embodies our collective dedication to fostering positive change in the lives of individuals and communities.
Let us eagerly anticipate the finalization of the report and its potential to amplify our stories to a wider audience.
Celebrating Innovation: Robotics Day at Future Nations School
On March 16th, the Future Nations School, in collaboration with Sifiso EdTech, hosted an electrifying Robotics Day! The air was charged with excitement as learners from our Khulani Schools, including Moses Kotane Primary School and Willow Crescent Secondary School, proudly unveiled their remarkable robots.
This event was a jubilant tribute to innovation, creativity, and sheer brilliance! Our learners demonstrated their technical prowess and revealed their unwavering passion for artificial intelligence and robotics. It served as a testament to their intelligence and commitment to exploring new technological frontiers.
We extend heartfelt congratulations to all participants for their hard work and ingenuity. Special thanks to Future Nations School and Sifiso EdTech for organizing this inspiring event and motivating our learners to aim for the stars.
Let's continue nurturing and supporting our young innovators as they pave the way for a future brimming with limitless possibilities in the realm of robotics!
Celebrating Success: Mpolokeng's Journey in India with the Executive Development Programme
We are thrilled to share some exciting news from our colleague Mpolokeng Pitso, who recently embarked on an incredible journey to India as part of her participation in the Executive Development Programme sponsored by FASSET (Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority) and IWFSA (International Women's Forum South Africa) this programme provided her with valuable insights and allowed her to immerse herself in a rich cultural experience. Here's a glimpse into her memorable trip:
Exploring Dharavi: A Journey of Resilience and Unity
One of the highlights of Mpolokeng's trip was her visit to Dharavi, often dubbed as the "Five Star Slum in Asia." Despite the challenging living conditions, Dharavi impressed her with its functional infrastructure, bustling economic activity, and resilient community spirit. She was inspired by the unity and cooperation among the residents, who worked together to create a vibrant and productive environment.
Embracing Diversity and Inclusion
Mpolokeng's time in India also deepened her understanding of diversity and inclusion, particularly in the context of women's economic empowerment. Witnessing the roles of women in various aspects of society encouraged her to advocate for greater opportunities for women both professionally and personally. She believes in the power of diversity and inclusion to drive innovation and foster a supportive work environment.
Culinary Delights and Cultural Immersion
On a lighter note, Mpolokeng indulged in the diverse and flavorful cuisine of India, relishing every culinary experience. From savory stews to exotic seafood dishes, she savored the vibrant flavors of the local cuisine. Additionally, her exploration of Indian markets and engagement in negotiation skills training added another dimension to her cultural immersion.
Professional Growth and Personal Reflections
Mpolokeng's participation in the Executive Development Programme not only enriched her professional skills but also facilitated personal growth. She emphasized the importance of resilience, continuous learning, and mindfulness in both professional and personal endeavors. Through introspection and engagement with her peers, she discovered new perspectives and approaches to leadership.
Looking Ahead
As Mpolokeng integrates her learnings from India into her role at TNF, she remains committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity, empowerment, and continuous improvement. Her dedication to personal and professional development serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us to embrace challenges and opportunities with enthusiasm and resilience.
Please join us in congratulating Mpolokeng on her remarkable journey and accomplishments. We are fortunate to have such a passionate and dedicated colleague among us.
Celebrating Your Exceptional Leadership: Happy Birthday, Shalane!!!
On behalf of the entire Trevor Noah Foundation team, we want to take a moment to wish you the happiest of birthdays! We celebrate not only the passing of another year but also the incredible person you are and the invaluable contributions you've made to our organization.
Your role as our Founding Managing Director has been nothing short of remarkable. Your unwavering dedication, tireless work ethic, and visionary leadership have been instrumental in shaping the success of TNF. Your commitment to our mission, paired with your exceptional talents, has propelled us forward and enabled us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of countless individuals.
Shalane, your passion for empowering others and creating positive change is truly inspiring. Your ability to lead with compassion, integrity, and grace sets an example for us all. Through your guidance and mentorship, you have cultivated a culture of excellence and collaboration within our organization, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute their best.
As we celebrate your birthday, we want to express our deepest gratitude for everything you do. Your dedication, resilience, and visionary leadership have been a driving force behind our success, and we are profoundly grateful to have you at the helm.
Here's to another year of achievement, growth, and continued impact under your steadfast leadership. May your birthday be filled with joy, love, and all the happiness you deserve.
Finally: The Wait is Over! Introducing the KSP Impact Video Launch
We've been eagerly anticipating this moment, and today it's finally here – the launch of the full KSP Impact video!
For those who may not be familiar, KSP (Khulani Schools Program) is the flagship intervention of the Trevor Noah Foundation, introduced back in 2018. The program's mission is to provide primary and secondary school youth with inclusive and equitable access to quality education. "Khulani" translates to "grow" in IsiXhosa, embodying the essence of what we aim to achieve through this initiative.
After much anticipation, we're thrilled to present the complete KSP Impact video to all of you. This video encapsulates the essence of our program, showcasing the transformative impact it has had on the lives of countless students and educators.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy the video! Let's celebrate the incredible journey of growth and empowerment that KSP represents.
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