“We are very proud of these exceptional young women and honoured to have been in a position to help them accomplish their tertiary qualifications. Education is paramount in achieving gender equality in South Africa as it empowers women with knowledge, skills, self-confidence, social and economic status. These qualities enable them to go out and actively contribute to our economy and create a better nation for all,” says Cell C managing executive: CSI, Suzette van der Merwe.
The CellCgirl Bursary Fund has been instrumental in creating opportunities for girl learners from poor and vulnerable backgrounds by investing in their tertiary education. In this initiative, Cell C has partnered with non-profit organisation, the Tomorrow Trust, who provide psychosocial support, life skills development and academic support.
“We hope to unlock South Africa’s potential by providing world class holistic education programmes. These young graduates are an inspiration. Despite their backgrounds and challenges, they have led by example by working hard to complete their studies. They show how to go about contributing to building a better society,” said Tomorrow Trust’s CEO James Donald.
Paula Hopetown, a recent LLB graduate from the University of Witwatersrand said: “I went into law because I have a passion for fighting for the rights of ordinary South Africans. This bursary has helped me realise that dream.”
Nelisiwe Mfabe, who completed a marketing communications qualification, said: “This bursary helped me complete my studies when I was about to give up due to lack of funds. This has really helped me improve my life and that of my family.”
Stacey Rontiris from Tomorrow Trust and Boni Dlamini from Cell C with the Cell C 2018 graduates Paula Hopetown, Ushmikka Badal, Boni Dlamini, Cell C's Nelisiwe Mfabe and Yachna Sewnunan.
