"The Best Programme in the World! Imagine Scholar is a program every community needs! Imagine Scholar is truly an identity to be proud of. It has empowered me to view my community not with bitterness or frustration, but with the power to enact the positive change they need. I’ve learned how to connect with people, understand their stories, and work alongside them. Imagine Scholar has taught me the power of mindset, completely transforming my perspective on life. Where others see challenges, I now see opportunities to make a difference.
It has shown me that kindness is my strength, not a weakness. I’ve gained an arsenal of academic strategies and thinking tools that set me apart as a student at the University of Cape Town. When people say I approach things differently—more kindly, more willing to listen, and better to work with—it reminds me of the immense pride I feel in being an Imagine Scholar.
I've been working with Imagine Scholar for several years now and have been immensely impressed and inspired. It is truly a unique program and organization, full of passion and creativity and infectious energy. From the surprising and progressive curriculum to the immersive and holistic experience, it is an organization with the ability to shift the paradigm on what youth engagement and empowerment really means. And the impact is undeniable. Well into its second decade, Imagine Scholar has been a powerful and positive change agent for individuals and for communities. From the founders and leaders to the alumni and students, it is the kind of organization you would be proud to be associated with.
Wonderful organization making a powerful difference to the lives of young people in the Nkomazi region of South Africa.
Imagine Scholar isn't just an educational program; it's a life-altering journey that reshapes minds and ignites souls. Since 2018, it has been my guiding light, turning a spark of potential into a roaring fire of ambition and purpose.
Through Imagine Scholar, my mindset and beliefs underwent a profound transformation. Surrounded by brilliant peers and dedicated mentors, I found a community where innovation and excellence thrived. Together, we became a force for positive change, fueled by a shared passion for learning and impact.
What sets Imagine Scholar apart is its unwavering commitment to individual growth. Here, I wasn't just another student—I was seen, heard, and empowered to chase my dreams fearlessly. This program isn't just stellar; it's a beacon of hope for anyone seeking to unlock their full potential and make a difference in the world.
Imagine scholar is a revolutionary non-profit that is helping young kids to thrive. Its philosophy is based on the fact that talent is everywhere - it just needs to be nutured. IS have pioneered a programme to nurture the talent, thereby enabling it to thrive.
My name is Carol Sithole and I joined Imagine Scholar in the year 2016. I would like to point out that I didn't choose Imagine Scholar, Imagine Scholar chose me. Not because I was a better student, not because I had good marks, it was a privilege. From the moment I became an Imagine Scholar, I began to realise that my life was in a bubble, I needed to break free. I had always thought that as long as I finish school, work and earn money then that’s it. Imagine Scholar has given me the chance to view the world from a different angle. It taught me that it’s not about earning, but enjoying the experience and making an impact.
At first when I joined Imagine Scholar I thought that it was just an after school program to help us improve our grades and help us with going to university. But, when I became part of the Imagine Scholar family, I realised it was more than that. To me, Imagine Scholar became my second family. I met loving and extraordinary students and facilitators, people who helped me grow and made me realise that there’s more to education by giving me feedback. They made me fall in love with learning. I started reading books and got exposed to many learning platforms such as Coursera, Learning How to Learn etc. I got empowered to take charge of my life and I realised that I have the power to lead and bring change in my community. The activities such as leading an improvisation club and facilitating students I’ve done at Imagine Scholar and the knowledge I got gave me the confidence and willingness to go back to my community and bring the change I want to see.
I am currently in my second year at the United States International University. I am so grateful for this opportunity and most importantly to Imagine Scholar to make this possible. I never thought I would get such an opportunity. My goal and mission is to go back to work at Imagine Scholar when I finish with my school.
My Journey with Imagine Scholar started in 2013 when I was selected as a student. From that day onwards my life completely changed. The program exposed me to other young people that aspire to be the best at what they do and be the best version of themselves, and that it's okay to be different. I never thought I would meet so many people who have since become my family, my friends, and people I look up to; my second home where I would get to step outside my comfort zone and explore the world.
I am grateful I got a chance to be exposed to Imagine Scholar before my college life, where I got a chance to use a computer + enhance my skills, which helped with my college pathway
After college, I came back to work at Imagine Scholar to help give the other youth the opportunity that was given to me. Nothing excites me like being part of the Imagine Scholar community and among such inspiring individuals.
The program taught me I can be the change I want to see in the world, and that I am a Multitude "I can do all sorts of things and still be happy and successful" and that Life is exciting as long you are curious and willing to grow.
I have always thought that education is the greatest way of uplifting somebody. I have heard of what Imagine Scholar contribute and I am very impressed by the program.
What I love about it is that it is focused on making the world a better place and the recipients give back to the communities they come from.
Love the concept, educational program that produces great leaders that are eager to give back. Education is the future.
Imagine Scholar is my home. I started my journey at Imagine Scholar in the year 2014. At Imagine Scholar, I got the opportunity to meet other scholars from different backgrounds with different stories. Yet, what bound us together was the eagerness to achieve our dreams, and Imagine Scholar provided a space for that. As a scholar, I was encouraged to step outside my comfort zone and encouraged to do things I thought were impossible at that time. The program has taught me that it is okay to be different and that mistakes do not define who I am, but they suppose to teach me a lesson. With that mindset, I was able to try out new things, and failure has motivated me to try even harder.
After finishing my final year of high school, I took a gap year to attend a graduate program at Imagine Scholar. Through the program, I continued to focus on personal development. I read books on personal growth and practiced mindfulness to understand my emotions better and kindly deal with them. Also, I attended university preparation sessions where I explored topics such as time management, studying techniques, presentation skills, academic writing, etc. Also took part in community services.
Imagine Scholar had made me believe in myself like never before and shifted my perspective on how I view the world. I now think that the sky is not the limit. I will forever be grateful for the program because I am today because of Imagine Scholar. And it is my wish that the program can expand so that more young people are reached and presented with new possibilities and, most importantly, a new home with loving and supportive scholars and facilitators. With that being said, I plan to come back and work for Imagine Scholar after I graduate from the university.
Such a great initiative that is making a real difference to Children’s lives. I’m really keen to continue to support their growth and help spread the word on the value that they bring to the communities that they support.
Great project and happy to support and help spreading the word to ensure the program makes further impact and can grow!
When I started my journey at Imagine Scholar, I was expecting mainly academics, as most programs are widely known to deal with academics in our community. My perspective began to shift as we were introduced to different topics, such as communications, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, social intelligence and visual intelligence, topics outside of academics. These helped shift my view towards the world, and look at the world in different views. Not only did Imagine Scholar bring such topics and helped shape my view, but they also introduced me to other Scholars who I know have my back, where we support each other in our journeys and learn and teach each other. Imagine Scholar has not been a place to only learn but to help each other grow outside of our comfort zone and realise our potential, that we are amazing people and we can help each other.
I have been an Imagine Scholar since 2010. My journey started when I got selected to be one of the first five students when Imagine Scholar was founded. My role at IS has changed over the years. Imagine Scholar has taught me to believe in the things I thought were impossible when I was younger. The program has honed my skills both personally and professionally. I have learned to truly be excited about life and that my passions and dreams are just as important as my academic and professional achievements. I currently serve as the Chairperson of the South African board and I have never been more excited to be a part of something in my entire life! Imagine Scholar is an amazing organization and it has changed my life in more ways than I can count. I have met some of my best friends and heroes through this organization. It truly does make education a fun and accessible experience for my community.
This is a great project that I came across from friends and learned so much more from their website! I would very much like to support this wonderful initiative that enriches the lives of our future generation and I would be very happy to spread the word to increase the impact of the program across South Africa... and beyond! Great work Imagine Scholar - let's make this happen!
Heard about the work recently - brilliant initiative. Great to see an organisation with the vision to partner with young people for a significant period to help really establish their potential. I look forward to hearing some of the amazing stories of how the young people go on to positively impact life in the country or indeed globally!
I have been a part of Imagine Scholar since 2012 when I joined in as a student/scholar. Right after graduation in high school I took a gap year and gave back to the organization and community by working as a graduate Intern for a year before I advanced to University. My experience there as both a student and now an alumni has really contributed to most of my personal growth, my professional journey and passions. I learned a lot of about reading and since I was in a space that encouraged it, it came so natural.
Few years later, I signed up to be a part of the Imagine Scholar, S.A board member and served as treasurer. My passion for finance and accounting helped me learn so much and also remain openminded. I picked up a lot of effective communication skills, built networks and the most important skill, asking questions.
My journey with Imagine Scholar is just starting and I am so excited for what the future holds and also cannot wait to experience the program's constant growth.
I have lived next to Imagine Scholar since it moved its campus to Kamhlushwa. In our small community, I have come to learn of Imagine Scholar's work and its community through a variety of avenues. Every visitor and member of the Imagine Scholar family only has great relationships, experiences, and ideas to share. In an area of South Africa that suffers from a number of social issues, organizations such as this are desperately needed to demonstrate to our youth the need for change and the ability within to grow as leaders.
I worked as a facilitator for Imagine Scholar for almost 3 years and I can say it is a truly remarkable, fertile place. For students and staff alike, being in a growth-centered, supportive space is transformative and life-enriching. I know that students who come through the program feel equipped to stand by their values, to make wise decisions (and to learn from mistakes), to think creatively, and overall to have the courage to be the best version of themselves. Whether graduates are eager to return to join the program staff or mentor remotely or simply write out thoughtful messages of gratitude, the long-term impact of the community is undeniable. I am proud to have been a part of this community; wherever I go the spirit of Imagine Scholar is always with me.
I’ve been a donor to this organization for over 10 years now and have had the opportunity to visit the campus twice. It has been incredible and an absolute joy to see how much the program has grown. The students are some of the most impressive young people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting and they will for sure be making an impact in this community.
I've come to learn about Imagine Scholar through a close friend of mine that works within one of it's programs. As an educator in South Africa's public secondary schools, I have seen how unique Imagine Scholar spaces are, and how much its staff pours into creating a safe environment for student-centered learning and self-discovery.
This organization utilizes evidence-based pedagogy and a curricular model that fosters student leadership and independence, two factors of youth development that lack in rural areas of South Africa such as ours. I love getting to see and hear what this group of ambitious students get to take on, and I continue to look forward to how this organization will model change for our communities.
Imagine Scholar is the definition of a non-profit that's doing it right. They truly care about South Africa, education, and helping those who need it. I hope to see their growth in the future and am excited for what is to come from the Alumni and staff in the next few years. Great people, a powerful mission, and exceptional students!
Review from Guidestar
Imagine Scholar is enabling passionate, ambitious, high-achieving individuals in under-resourced communities to achieve greatness through intensive workshops and a strong support network.
They are an amazing team working with amazing students, and we are proud to be a part of their mission.
A dear friend of mine has been working for imagine scholar for a few years now and the impact it's had on him and the impact he has had on the scholars is invaluable and life changing. This organization gives students incredible opportunities to thrive by encouraging them to explore their curiosities and tap into their greatest potential through education and leadership. It's an organization I want to continue to support and I hope will continue to prosper and change many lives
Dedicated staff, wonderful organization. Truly working to create change within a community and empower young minds. Anything but generic, Imagine scholar is one of few organizations I have seen that put individual creativity, empathy, and growth first. Rather than be driven by results and details about scholarship and college destination, they seem to focus on the process, knowing that by giving that individual attention the desired results will come...and they sure have. Inspiring.
At Paper Video, we specialise in creating edtech resources that give learners immediate access to an extra teacher, irrespective of their circumstances. However, if it were not for incredible organisations such as Imagine Scholar, our resources would fail to reach their full potential when it comes to making a positive impact on the academic results of learners, particularly for learners from low-income, rural backgrounds. Imagine Scholar have never failed to impress when it comes to maximising the effectiveness of our resources while ensuring that they take the reality of their learners' circumstances into account. We always look forward to their impact reports and look forward to working with them for years to come. If only more non-profits in South Africa were like Imagine Scholar.
This charity supports education in underdeveloped nations. It is important work, as we are giving a hand up to the bright inquisitive minds that need this help to reach their full potential, improve their lives, their community, and ultimately, the planet. I gladly support their mission, and the hardworking staff that goes to places where creature comforts are scarce. I applaud their dedication to educational excellence.
2016 was one of the most memorable years of my life. A year at which I was chosen to be an Imagine Scholar. Being a part of the program throughout the past four years was a great privilege. I shared strong bonds with students who were passionate about learning, growth, and making a difference in our community. Each session challenged me to be a better thinker in various thinking tools. The quality of education that I got from the program was very relevant to real life. From volunteering in an old age home to building an electric vehicle with my peers. I truly came alive and stepped outside my comfort zone as I was empowered to be extraordinary. Coming from a rural community, never have I thought that one day I would fly to the United States for a Yale program or even be enrolled in a Canadian University. Imagine Scholar has paved the way to many successes and moments of awe in my life.
I will forever be grateful.
I have been a supporter of Imagine Scholar for five years. During this time, I have sponsored three students in this amazing program. It has been exciting to see how much they have grown into exceptional young people during their time in Imagine Scholar. I also had the chance to visit Imagine Scholar three years ago and to see the program in action in this rural area of South Africa. The students are so enthusiastic, so willing to work hard. They seem eager to reach their full potential, and are excited about contributing to their communities. They are encouraged to share ideas and work with other students and staff, which seems to build self confidence.
I believe in and support Imagine Scholar because I'm convinced its program is changing the lives of its students and is helping them to become future leaders of their area and beyond.
I'm also impressed with the support that Imagine Scholar gives each student, both financial and otherwise, which continues into college. Imagine Scholar is an amazing educational concept and I am proud to be a supporter.
I was an intern for Imagine Scholar while I was in graduate school studying International Education. I wanted to work with an organization that provided access to education with a ground-up approach. Imagine Scholar exceeded my expectations. It was an amazing experience to get to work with the staff and students of this organization. Students really took charge of their curriculum and directed projects they were passionate about. I am grateful to have been part of their educational journey in some capacity. This is an organization that has integrity to their mission— and that’s truly one of a kind.
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I was an intern with Imagine Scholar while I was doing my masters in International Higher Education and had the opportunity to visit the program for a couple of months and work alongside the students and staff. Imagine Scholar truly is an organization that exceeds my expectations as a non-profit focussed on sustainable development through education. They encourage and cultivate students to explore their passions, ask questions, and provide a safe and welcoming environment for them to be uniquely themselves. Students are not passive but are important decision makers in how the organization grows and how they want to make an impact in their community. Imagine Scholar is truly an organization that has an ethical and sustainable ground-up approach and holds great integrity to its values. It's an honor to continue to work with them.
I joined Imagine Scholar in 2016 because I saw it as a place for me to learn, develop leadership skills and create relationships that are the backbone of my life. I have six siblings and all of us are raised by a single mom who never spent more than 3 years in primary school and who's a farmworker. Growing up I always wanted to do good at school so that I can help her out. The reason I mention my mom is that she is similar to Imagine Scholar. My mom made sure, is it still making sure, that my siblings and I had access to education no matter what. She believes in the power of education to change the world and this applies to Imagine Scholar too.
At Imagine Scholar I fell in love with learning (education) because of how my facilitators approached it. They empowered me to take charge of my own learning by offering books, online courses and classes where my input was taken into consideration. And this was very important because it improved my confidence in sharing ideas and figuring out new ways to bring change. For example, I used to be scared of starting a project to help out other students in my community but Imagine Scholar helped me overcome that fear. At Imagine Scholar I learned to believe in my ideas, and those of my friends, and to try doing something even if I never heard about it before.
Currently, I am doing my last year of high school at United World College Red Cross Nordic in Norway and this was possible because of Imagine Scholar. I attended two Yale summer camps, one in Ghana and one in Connecticut. These are all things that I never thought I would do. These are things my mom never thought I would do. But I did them because Imagine Scholar believed in me and helped me dream bigger than before.
I know that it was part of my hard work that connected me to Imagine Scholar but at the same time I always feel like there is some luck involved. If there's some luck involved, I don't want to be the last one to have that luck. Thus, I'm coming back to work at Imagine Scholar after I am done with college. I want to work with the youth from South Africa and hopefully the whole of Africa and help them have access to the same opportunities as I did and even better ones. This is the role that I want to play in the world and I am very grateful to Imagine Scholar for helping me realise it.
I have been part of imagine scholar as a student for four full years and I am currently in university. I consider Imagine scholar as a place of growth and I can boldly say with confidence that I have seen nothing in my life but positive impact only. It's one of those places where you get to be free and reach your full level of potential and creativity. They not only focus on individuals, they also reach out to our communities. We've done many community services, touched many individuals within our communities and made change in our society. It's one of those organisations that are worth keeping, for their positive influence within individuals as well as our society.
I have been involved with Imagine Scholar for over 5 years and love every aspect of my engagement. The organization has a simple, but very effective strategy for helping to launch future leaders in rural South Africa. Imagine Scholar inspires the creativity, intelligence, curiosity and leadership skills of high motivated students through an after-school and weekend enrichment program. Students devote over 25 hours per week in addition to their regular school hours. These students are amazing and they have plans to change the world! Imagine Scholar provides all of the on-the-ground support and also continues to support the student needs in college, professionally and beyond. Imagine Scholar is about creating leaders--but not just any leader--these are leaders with the vision and ethics to be the agents of change needed in this community and many others around the world. I have had the chance to work with many of the students directly and to watch their incredible growth and development. I am inspired every time I interact with an Imagine Scholar student--they give me tremendous hope for the future!
Imagine a program that trains teens to think philosophically and critically beyond what they've been exposed to at home and school. Imagine a place where some students travel up to 30 miles to get the special attention and encouragement that the Imagine Scholar staff gives them along with a simple meal of PB&J, eggs and fruit.
Imagine a place where students have a desire to make their community and the world a better place. Imagine a place where students learn to express themselves so authentically and eloquently that they often earn scholarships to prestigious schools and universities all over the world.
Imagine a place down a dirt road with 3 simple buildings, a volleyball net, fruit trees, and 2 chickens and 2 dogs, 2 cats rural South Africa. Imagine an international staff willing to commit their own youth, knowledge, and enthusiasm to nurture the bright, sweet and eager youth around Kamhlushwa. IMAGINE IT! IT IS HAPPENING AT IMAGINE SCHOLAR!
I left Imagine Scholar feeling hopeful and humbled!
Great non-profit doing really important work in a community that needs them. The staff and students all carry the same level of passion and enthusiasm to developing young people with high moral character. I have been working with Imagine Scholar on providing options for university studies for the past 3 years and have loved every interaction with the team and their students.
Professional, conscious, genuine group of dedicated leaders who help inspire their community and feel passionately fulfilled while doing it. Their love is as contagious as their drive. Their approach is to teach a community of young people to fish, or rather to guide them in the right direction of finding the tools and resources to do so when they are already destined to be great fishermen. Wonderful mentors and friends with a beautiful mission.
Imagine Scholar is an excellent program. I was able to visit the program with my sister and am grateful to have seen it in person. Students are happy and they really want to be there to learn and progress. The staff works really hard for the students. They maintain a high level and students are willing to work outside the box. Students love being there and want to be there as much as possible. They are eager to learn and I know nothing is going to stop them as they go through life.
It's been a pleasure to be involved in this nonprofit for the past 5 years. The culture created by staff and students fires an enthusiasm in learning I've never seen before. On no-less than two occasions this has propelled students into space. They created their own space balloon rising 34km above the earth to capture a perspective few of us have been lucky to obtain. Can't wait to get back and see everyone....
Best, Gavin (Yellobric, School Space Race)
I remember when I heard about Imagine Scholar as nothing more than an idea and being moved by that vision alone. In the years following, I observed from afar as it grew and grew through the tireless efforts of students and staff alike.
I was blessed recently with an opportunity to come assist in its continued development. Once there, I was able to behold the magic of what Imagine scholar has become today. Just thinking of the students, the staff, and the amazing culture they’ve created- it makes my heart swell and brings tears to my eyes.
Being able to create real change in this world, whether locally or globally- it begins in fostering the unlimited potential of young minds. And I got to see it happening daily, up close and personal. While I facilitated but a small role in being a positive and encouraging influence to the students, it is an honor I shall forever cherish. I can’t wait to donate my time and efforts again. More importantly, I can’t wait to see the world that these amazing young intellectuals create not only for themselves, but for you and I as well. And to think- it all started with one idea in one mind, planting the seed of change, and letting it proliferate and bloom, just the way nature intended!
So very honored and humbled,
Dusty Towler
I became involved with Imagine Scholar at its outset. Since its inception, the organization has made a huge and meaningful impact on the Nkomazi community of South Africa. Imagine Scholar's executives and staff are dedicated and passionate. They ensure the success of their students through constant effort, empathy, and enthusiasm. The accomplishments and successes of this organization are abundant--just peruse their website for a few minutes and see. What truly astounds me about the organization is the individual attention and care each student receives. If we had a global educational system predicated on the principles enacted by Imagine Scholar then all the children of the world would have a brighter future.
After being selected to be part of Imagine Scholar in 2012, I got the opportunity to meet and interact with peers and staff members from unique backgrounds and with different perspectives. This has helped me to be an open-minded person and step outside my comfort zone. Through Imagine Scholar I got the motivation to explore my passion in mindfulness and mental health as well as youth empowerment.Some of the major takeaways I got from the program are gratitude, giving back to my community and grit.
With the skills I learned at Imagine Scholar(writing, critical thinking and communication and etc) I am able to cope with pressure and have my social and academic life at equilibrium in college. The program is still part of my support system to its alumnus and students.
I was at Imagine Scholar just a year ago. My time there was brief but it honestly felt like a retreat getaway. I was away in a secluded area, away from the buzzing city life engaging with the most intriguing teens whilst learning the isiSwati language.
As a person who has worked in a handful of Nonprofits, Imagine Scholar definately stood out for me. The programmes are carefully crafted to encourage critical thinking on a global scale, the facilitators provide a sufficient degree of assistance whilst allowing the learner to grow independently. After being in a traditional classroom the best way to further enhance your intelligence is to engage in an academic program that has a liberal arts centered curriculum. From witnessing young people engineering an electric vehicle, to a duo of chess champions, nodding profusely to an introductory class in coding. I felt so inspired by the team and the young people.
I definitely have intentions of returning to see these young people who have probably made more discoveries and some who have come up with the most mind boggling theories.
I've been lucky enough to support Imagine Scholar since its founding nearly a decade ago, was asked to serve on the board in 2012, and finally was able to visit in 2016. During this time I've watched Imagine Scholar grow into a self-sustaining organization that's becoming the educational, entrepreneurial, and leadership backbone of the Nkomazi region. It's after-school and weekend program is the foundation for hope for a small but growing number of young students with unlimited potential who are looking for any opportunity to change the lives of people in their community for the positive.
On my visit I was lucky enough to spend time with the second student I've sponsored who, with help from Imagine Scholar and guidance from the staff and previous program graduates, is working his way into college and a rewarding life beyond. Not many people where he is from get that opportunity and all he needed was the tiniest bit of motivation and a support group of people who said to go for it. He spends nearly all his non-public school waking hours at Imagine Scholar, learning and exploring and figuring out where his place is in the world. Imagine Scholar seems to me to be situated in a beautiful yet devastated part of the country and the students there are trying against all odds to grow their community into something they are proud of and that provides hope for the future generation of young people growing up there. I'm very lucky to be a part of their journey and I look forward to contributing for as long as I can be a part of it!
Sincerely,
Parker Montgomery
I was chosen in 2012 to join Imagine Scholar . I recall that I was a narrow minded kid and loaded with fear. However, meeting with the extraordinary learners and facilitators with phenomenal personalities from the program challenged me to change the way I used to view the world. I was then introduced to reading which truly enhance my discourse.
More significantly, Imagine Scholar is a genuine family! The love and support I get from them is tremendous! They truly put stock in our dreams and continually eager to help us to accomplish them. Presently, I am doing my third year in Computer Science. This was my greatest dream throughout everyday life and through Imagine Scholar I am experiencing my dreams.
Henceforth, today I see myself as young men with love for problem solving with a burning desire to give back to my community and be an inspiration because my motive for success does not revolve around being self centered, but lifting up the ones that can’t embark on the journey to success on their own, like I was.
I genuinely appreciate the open door Imagine Scholar offered me to wind up the best form of myself and help me find my capabilities!
Uniquely, instead of announcing a Mission Statement, Imagine Scholar asks a Mission Question: How can youth be empowered to enact change within themselves and their communities now and in to the future?
In the seemingly simple gesture of asking a question in lieu of making a statement, Imagine Scholar allows for the individuality of each student, her talents, her circumstances, and her goals. In this manner, Imagine Scholar is all about the student and not about its own self-perpetuation. Indeed, Imagine Scholar’s aim is its own obsolescence: the ultimate goal is mentoring these students to become leaders of their own community, eventually leading to the natural displacement of Imagine Scholar in that particular space.
Like minds attract, and it is in this vein that Imagine Scholar and my debate group, The Hive, connected: as communities who ask questions with the goal of finding an answer, sometimes many answers. I brought 4 students to teach a debate workshop during the winter break 2017. Even on holiday, the students evidenced what seems to be fairly typical Imagine Scholar behavior: the curiosity to check us out initially, the self-confidence (notably lacking self-consciousness) to dive right in, and the sense of community to share the experience with others and beyond the workshop itself.
Imagine Scholar is more than an after school program. It is a community of people who choose to support one another as whole people. Notably, Imagine Scholar is visionary but rooted in reality. Their aim is to support and broaden that reality on an individual and community-wide basis so that the vision becomes real.
Imagine Scholar is a great example of a nonprofit revolutionising development through smart initiatives and innovative methods, rather than huge spending. In the time I spent with them, I was amazed by the quality of the education that the children in the program recieved, without extensive spending on facilities. The organisation is run from top-to-bottom with a visionary approach, encapsulating the idea that the community can be the first to help themselves. Their program doesn't just teach maths and science, it teaches the children to become innovators in their community, to become lifelong learners and to appreciate how their efforts can rewards themselves and their peers rewards.
The work of the co-ordinators and the staff on the ground contributes to an educational model that not only helps the kids in the program, but also has multiplier effects on the entire community. Imagine Scholar is a nonprofit that I loved to be a part of, but I also wish could become a model replicated on a much larger scale.
I was selected to be part of Imagine scholar at the beginning of 2011 (Second generation class). When I started as a student, I was told I was becoming part of an afterschool journey where I will get insights and mentorship from people coming from different parts of the world with different backgrounds, who will dedicate their time and energy to transforming my character, developing my critical thinking, strategic, innovative and leadership skills. I was told we will explore different topics like problem-solving, poetry, writing for academic purposes, solving social issues while receiving extra academic help and broadening our knowledge with books, podcasts, articles, ted talks, online info forums, etc. 8 years later, as a former student, I know I got way more than what was promised to me, my character changed drastically, my curiosity, vision, courage, empathy and global mindset grew beyond measures. Because of Imagine Scholar, I got a chance to go college, start a social venture to solve a problem in my community and on top of that, get a global learning experience to acquire skills required to take an idea I had and work on initiating it.
With all of this, nothing would have been possible without the extra packages that they (Imagine scholar) provided, which is the sense of belonging through knowing you have a family and are surrounded by like-minded individuals, support from facilitators to students who push you to be resilient and continue to develop, provide you with an endless source of opportunities and possibilities, continuously providing meaningful relationships which give you the courage to aim higher than the sky.
I volunteered with Imagine Scholars and I was blown away by the commitment of the staff and so impressed by the dedication of the students. The staff have created an environment that encourages learning, self-discovery, and community support. They tailor make their curriculum to ensure maximum involvement and effectiveness, so that the students can access their full potentials.
I have been an imagine scholar student sponsor for almost 2 years. I chose to contribute to this program because it fills a specific and necessary niche in a creative and sustainable way. South Africa’s greatest need, I believe, is to grow the next generation of strong, educated, committed professionals and leaders. This program balances developing each student’s own goals and ambitions with instilling in the student the desire and platform to give back to the community and help nurture the next intake of students. This self-sustaining and supportive model is proving to be very successful and the achievements of the students and graduates from the program speak for themselves.
I've been involved with Imagine Scholar for several years, as an off-and-on advisor for their students. The work being done there is top-notch: their youths are empowered to become effective learners, communicators and leaders in their communities. Their facility is full of support and optimism, which gives students a feeling that they'll be able to accomplish whatever they set their minds to. And they're right! Scholars have been accepted to numerous prestigious prep programs and universities. All around, it's a great nonprofit doing impactful work in an area where students are in need of their services.
I've been engaged with Imagine Scholar for several months now and have been blown away by its energy and efficacy ever since the beginning. It is a truly unique and inspiring youth development program that runs on passion, positivity, and an unwavering level of support. From the students to the facilitators, everyone involved in the Imagine Scholar community shares a genuine commitment to reaching their full potential and making a positive impact on the world. The degree of creativity and intellectual capability amongst the students is profound, and through the resources and support provided by the program, these aspiring youths are able to flourish as individuals, students, and leaders in their respective communities. The educational approach of the organization is distinct and all-encompassing, allowing students to pursue their own individual passions in a welcoming, forward-thinking environment. Imagine Scholar has already made a difference for so many deserving individuals, and I'm certain that the program will only prove more successful as its reach, influence, and community continue to grow. Thanks for everything that you do!
Imagine Scholar is an amazing, well-rounded youth development program that gives intelligent, promising, hardworking students a chance to pursue higher education and other disciplining programs that their surrounding community schools do not give them the chance to pursue. Imagine Scholar uses a combination of academic tutoring, leadership skills training, and personal self-reflection activities to help students become forward thinkers. Imagine Scholar fosters an environment of learning, community, and friendship.
I was asked to become an ambassador for this organisation. In the process of this, I started connecting with some of the students who were interested in my field of work and in the creative arts, and have stayed in touch with them regularly ever since. I see so much of the amazing work Imagine Scholar do, and what they bring to and encourage in their students. It is truly inspiring and I believe they are changing lives for the better every day.
I came upon IMAGINE SCHOLAR shortly after they initiated the program that has given hope and ensured the success of a significant number of youngsters in the remote poverty-stricken area of Kamhlushwa, south eastern Mpumalanga province in South Africa, when I was asked to source books for their library. Since then, I have witnessed the life-changing effect that Corey and his partner Megan have had on that community.
They have unwittingly taken up the challenge of the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town, Dr Mamphela Ramphele to "reimagine South Africa and keep alive the dream" fought for by great leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Steve Biko and Oliver Tambo.
Rather than focusing on tutoring, they undertake to uncover the potential of the scholars by exposing them to critical and creative thinking, great literature and poetry, ethics and the importance of making their own contribution to the community. The development of academic and practical skills is thus a by-product of these youngsters' growth in confidence and belief in their ability to succeed in anything they set their hearts on. From the start, I was impressed by the students being trusted to make decisions such as the selection of the new cohort of Imagine Scholars each year. Their talents are evident in the enthusiastic testimonies of successes on the website, but this would not have been possible without the faith that Megan and Corey placed in their innate intelligence, aptitudes and wisdom.
In a community of many child-headed households, family support is rare; the Imagine Scholar team, including foreign volunteers and scholars who completed the program, steps in to provide advice and encouragement. As they live in the community, with basic housing, roads that turn to mud when it rains and drought that burns up the vegetables in their food garden, they experience the realities of the lives of the scholars on the program.
The Imagine Scholar students are truly blessed to be served by Corey, Megan and the many donars who generously support this inspirational initiative!
Imagine Scholar is a humble nonprofit that has helped rural South African students repeatedly achieve feats that no other students have. So many educational programs only help students with their academics. Imagine Scholar does so much more. In addition to tutoring, the program focuses on personal development and helping students gain tools to drive their own growth. The students are also incredibly committed to helping each other. The sincerity of the students in the pursuit to dream big while also maintaining a critical eye on helping their own rural community is beyond inspiring. This educational environment is what every school should aspire to. I encourage you to visit their website www.imaginescholar.org to find out more, but more importantly, become involved! Learn how this small program helping students to revolutionize what it means to be a rural South African youth.
Check out these videos of two of the students:
-Justice - http://beautifulnews.news24.com/Beautiful-News/calling-checkmate-on-our-nations-education-emergency-20170920
-Samkelisiwe - http://beautifulnews.news24.com/Beautiful-News/if-i-can-be-a-doctor-thats-one-more-child-with-a-chance-20171004
My first encounter with Imagine Scholar was 6 years ago when I was a 14 year old girl in 9th grade. Through Imagine Scholar, I got acquainted with the reality of "determination will get you anywhere" and "hard work pays". I went from being a rural girl in South Africa who had never seen nor used a computer, to being a Global Education intern at the World Affairs Council - Washington, DC (WAC-DC). Never in my entire life would I had ever imagined the possibility of attending university had Imagine Scholar not given me the opportunity it did, at the time it did. I am now a graduate not only from Imagine Scholar but from the South Africa - Washington International Program (SAWIP) as well. This proves that Imagine Scholar does not only end at Imagine Scholar, it opens doors for bigger opportunities. I am forever grateful.
Imagine Scholar is a phenomenal afterschool program. The students are incredibly talented, driven, and always eager to learn. Imagine Scholar's staff and volunteers/interns have a profound commitment to empowering South African youth, and ensure that students pursue exciting opportunities to realize their potential and broaden their worldview. I feel honored to be part of the Imagine Scholar Family.
Hey there,
I had the chance to volunteer with Imagine Scholar in 2017 and I couldn't have been happier with this extraordinary project! I have worked with several grassroots nonprofits in Latin America, Asia and Africa for about two years in total and I can honestly say that Imagine Scholar is an absolutely unique program! As an after school program in a small rural community it goes far beyond assisting students with their academics - from philosophical debates about TED Talks and book cycles to building race carts and space balloons, the discovery and pursuit of utterly ample interests and passions is the foundation of this program and something that can be felt on the ground every day. With a student-centered approach Imagine Scholar fosters critical thinking and the contemplation of moral responsibilities in a country and world, where inequities and injustices ought to be addressed urgently. The students (and facilitators) are some of the brightest, most ambitious and passionate innovators, dreamers and thinkers I have ever met. With an incredible amount of grit, a love for learning, an untamed curiosity and endless support for each other, students at Imagine Scholar aim at empowering their community from within and I don't see any boundary stopping them from changing their world and beyond. Their achievements are already outstanding and I know that this is just the start. This nonprofit is a true gem with a sustainable future vision, so please donate to keep it going for many generations of students to come.
Best, Flo
I have the highest regard for Imagine Scholar and the amazing work they do. They provide amazing opportunities for learners from disadvantaged backgrounds. I have had the opportunity to meet and work with some of their students and they are exceptional. I don't have the words to describe how impressed I am with this organisation and what they do. They have my support and the support of my friends, colleagues and network.
My husband and I have been involved with Imagine Scholar for several years. The first student we sponsored is now at the African Leadership University on a full scholarship. Our second student is excelling in the 10th grade. We have visited Imagine Scholar in its rural corner of South Africa two times now and have witnessed firsthand the selflessness and dedication of the leaders and facilitators committed to the students’ development. We can also attest that their limited resources have been used very effectively. The eagerness of these bright and hard-working students to learn and to give back to their communities is so heartening. This supplement to their regular schools (which provide limited education) that emphasizes such things as leadership, character and critical thinking, give them the skills to believe they can make themselves, their families, their communities and even the world, a better place. In an area where poverty and disease are the norm and opportunities nearly non-existent, Imagine Scholar provides the hope, and more importantly, the tools to give these promising young people a path to success. My husband and I believe our involvement is one of the best things we've ever done.
What a great nonprofit organization and run by a group of very devoted people. I have been a sponsor/donor now for many years. One of the students that I sponsored was awesome, she sent letters and e-mails about how well she was doing in school and at Imagine Scholar. I receive e-mails, photos and videos of about students that are in a competitions and almost always they are the winners in their categories. Many of the graduates after going off to universities want to come back to work at Imagine Scholar to help other prepare going off to the universities.