The 28th of June saw South African and International stars come together to support the launch the Fc. South African legends such as Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Ryk Neetling, Jooste Van Der Westhuizen, Baby Jake Matlana as well as distinguished members of Parliament, all showed their support for the upliftment and education of young women.
Having personally witnessed women in his life struggle against diversity, Fikile Mbalula decided to establish his foundation to change the paths of young women, and provide them with the skills sets and opportunities to truly change the course of their lives. His Foundation will focus on developing and nurturing these willing minds through education in order to realize their dreams and full potential.
Five young women’s lives changed on the night of the launch, as they were the first to be awarded with bursaries for their academic future. Shafooqua Peternson of Roschnie Secondary School (17 years old), Silisizwe Nene of Queens High (18 years old), Katlego Matsoso of Pro Arto School (17 years old), Phakane Tshepiso of Steve Tshweto High (19 years old) and Thabeng Madigoe of Seshegang Secondary School (19 years old), will be the first of many to live up to the Foundation’s motto of “Lead to inspire, Inspire to lead.”
Two gentlemen who live by the Foundation’s motto and who are admired globally for their philanthropy work – Bishop Noel Jones and Dr Du Bois, were among the guests of the evening. International stars – Regina Hall, Kimberley Ellis, Kaye Fox, Solita Ebanks, Christie Tiegen, Selits Ebanks, Christy Teigen, Sanaa Latanand Kay Foxx showed their support for changing the lives of young women, as they all believe that they are the future of leadership.
The night was filled with inspiring speeches and performances. Some of the highlights of the night were Minister Fikile Mbalula sharing his belief that when you are in a position of power you have the opportunity to break the cycle of poverty and that it is critical to develop young girls to women in leadership. South African music sensations Mi Casa rounded off the night with a powerful performance.