Standard Bank Tutuwa Community Foundation introduces proactive youth development solutions
Standard Bank recently launched The Standard Bank Tutuwa Community Foundation in recognition of the relatively young South African population getting ready to enter the workforce. Arguably, the most powerful economic facilitator in its history, if properly supported and nurtured, this valuable demographic could move the South African economy forward into prosperity.
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Born of the community component of Tutuwa, the non-profit Standard Bank Tutuwa Community Foundation will assist in driving positive youth development in South Africa by focusing on three main theme areas.
They are:
- Early childhood development;
- Contributing towards a more effective schooling system; and
- Driving work opportunities for the youth.
The above areas, according to newly appointed CEO of The Standard Bank Tutuwa Community Foundation, Zanele Twala, deal with the most urgent needs in the South African economy and society.
“The role that The Standard Bank Tutuwa Community Foundation seeks to play is that of a partner to other non-profit organisations operating in the target areas,” says Twala. “We plan to fund interventions that have been proven to work, leverage current and emerging resources, as well as promote the formation and coordination of knowledge-sharing and networks. This will ensure that existing interventions are more effective,” Twala continues.
“Like most countries in Africa, we are experiencing a ‘youth bulge’; the phenomenon of a high number of young people compared to a country’s ageing population,” says Twala.
Ensuring sustainability
To ensure sustainable success, the foundation is guided by an experienced team of businessmen and women, all of whom have experience in finance, law or philanthropy.
In addition to Twala, the team includes former deputy vice-chancellor at the University of Johannesburg, Mpho Letlape as chairperson of The Standard Bank Tutuwa Community Foundation; CEO of Standard Bank Group Limited, Sim Tshabalala; former financial director of Standard Bank Group Limited, Simon Ridley; chair of the Independent Philanthropy Association of South Africa, Sarah Rennie; and CEO and founder of Heritage Capital, Philile Maphumulo.
“The Standard Bank Tutuwa Community Foundation was created for our youth, for their future, and for the future of South Africa. By collaborating and partnering with dedicated individuals and organisations, we will maximise the economic and social impact of our country’s youthful population to the benefit of all,” says Twala.
