In the summer of 2024, The White Feather Foundation awarded Ikamva Labantwana Bethu in Cape Town, South Africa, with five scholarships for students in their program. We are pleased to share their first updates about these extraordinary girls.
“I would like to express my gratitude for awarding me this bursary which has covered my school fees, stationery and laptop. Your support has made a significant difference in my education, and I truly appreciate this opportunity. I am excited to share that my first year of high school is going well so far.
I recently achieved 86 percent on my mathematics assignment and 82% on my geography test. This bursary has allowed me to focus on my studies without financial stress and I am committed to maintaining strong academic performance. I would be very grateful if I would continue receiving this support throughout my high school years, it has truly been life changing and I am determined to make the most of this opportunity. Thanks once again for believing in me and investing in my future.” —Katlego (Grade 8)
Lelam is passionate about her studies, and has consistently excelled, earning top marks across all her subjects in Grade 8.
She recently undertook a trial test at LEAP High School, where she achieved outstanding results, emerging as the top learner. Lelam is thrilled to have been awarded a scholarship to study at one of the most prestigious private schools.
In a recent interview, Lelam expressed her excitement, sharing that it has always been her dream to study at LEAP due to its specialization in mathematics and sciences, as she aspires to pursue a career in medicine, and this scholarship will provide her with the foundation to achieve her goals. She described this scholarship as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Angel is an inspiring young girl and a cherished member of the Ikamva Labantwana Bethu Cluster Foster Care Scheme. Abandoned by her biological mother at birth, Angel has been embraced by the foster care program, where she is flourishing and showing immense potential for a bright future.
As part of the after-school program in Grade 3, Angel was awarded a scholarship to ensure she receives the utmost care and support. This scholarship provides for her essential needs, including proper nutrition, school supplies, and clothing, enabling her to thrive both academically and personally. Angel’s resilience and grace are a testament to the transformative impact of love, care, and opportunity.
Lodien came from a challenging and devastating family background; she was ultimately admitted to the Ikamva Labantwana Bethu Cluster Foster Care Scheme for a better life.
Thanks to the scholarship, at age 5, Lodien is now provided with a bright future in a safe and nurturing environment in Grade R. The scholarship also ensures that she has access to essential academic necessities, giving her the foundation she needs to thrive both academically and personally.
Angenathi is a bright and determined 13-year-old girl from the small town of Tarkastad in the Eastern Cape, who has shown remarkable dedication to her education. As a member of the Ikamva Labantwana Bethu after-school care program, Angenathi’s enthusiasm for her studies quickly became evident. Excelling as a top performer in all her subjects, she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence.
Upon receiving a scholarship, Angenathi expressed heartfelt gratitude for this life-changing opportunity. She believes the scholarship will open new doors for her future, allowing her to pursue her dreams and improve her family’s circumstances, as she comes from a humble background. With great optimism, she pledged to maintain her excellent academic performance and make her parents, as well as the Ikamva Labantwana Bethu program, proud.
Angenathi’s story is a powerful testament to how resilience and access to resources can transform lives. She continues to inspire others with her determination and unwavering commitment to achieving a brighter future.
All photos are courtesy of Ikamva Labantwana Bethu.
Watch this space for more updates from our 2024 scholarship recipients in the coming weeks.
To contribute to the 2025 fund for the Cynthia Lennon Scholarship for Girls, which will award more students with life-changing scholarships this summer, start here.
Wonderful and important work being done 🙏🏼That Forward Together art work would make an awesome t-shirt!
It makes my heart happy to see these girls receive assistance so that they can reach their full potential!