Trevor Noah launches foundation at the New Nation School
VREDEDORP – New Nation School is among the first school to be selected to be apart of a youth development initiative.
South African comedian Trevor Noah proudly launched his foundation in his hometown at the New Nation School.
The Trevor Noah Foundation is a youth development initiative which prepares the youth for higher education and their transition into the workplace.
The event was presented by Noah and radio, television personality Anele Mdoda.
He said his vision is a country which advances because each generation builds and must grow beyond those before them.
Educating the youth is key to transforming his vision for South Africa into reality.
In spite of relocating to New York, Noah still remains true to his African roots. He attributes his success to receiving a good education and to his mother who was a powerful role model.
“The higher the level of education, the higher chance the youth have of creating a future for themselves and collectively, a better South Africa. In recognising the power of education, the foundation was created to address the critical needs of other youths who are at risk of being left behind,” said Noah.
His investment is targeted at education, where South Africa’s unemployment rate for youth younger than 25 is a staggering 65 per cent.
Millions don’t complete school and for those who do, there is a challenge between the availability and demand of workforce skills in our economy.
New Nation School in Vrededorp was selected by the foundation and caters to orphans and children who don’t have a traditional family structure.
In spite of the learners’ unique challenges, they still achieved high academic marks.
The foundations pilot programme, which has already started provides learners psycho-social support skills development interventions and career guidance from grades 9 to 12.
Through monitoring the learners’ progress, the foundation intends to share the experience with other organisations and even the government.
Noah said the launch was a day he’s always dreamed of but never thought he’d be able to experience.
“It’s one of the best days of my life. Thank you to everyone who embarked on this journey with us. Here’s to a new beginning,” said Noah.
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