IN CONVERSATION WITH SIBABALWE MPOFU, Fellowship Programme Officer

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation is inviting high- performing Grade 12 learners with a passion for entrepreneurship to apply for its University Fellowship Programme. The Fellowship provides more than financial support for university studies, it is a transformative programme designed to nurture entrepreneurial mindset development, personal growth, and leadership skills. Successful candidates gain access to needs based university funding, mentorship from industry professionals, and long- term support to help them create meaningful impact in their communities and contribute to South Africa’s economic growth. Eligibility criteria include, South African citizenship and being under 21 years old in 2026. Strong academic performance, minimum 60% in pure Mathematics or 80% in Mathematical Literacy and a minimum 70% average for final Grade 11 results, excluding Life Orientation. Intention to study Commerce, Science, Engineering, Law, Humanities, Arts, or Health Sciences, excluding Medicine, Veterinary Science, and Dentistry at selected South African universities, including WITS, UJ, UCT, NMU, RU, UWC, SU, UP, UFS, UKZN, or TSiBA. Full funding is provided for applicants with a combined household income of R1 million or less, needs-based funding is available for higher-income 09:35 applicants. The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation, part of the Allan & Gill Gray Philanthropies, has over 20 years of experience in developing entrepreneurial potential in Southern Africa. It runs programmes such as the Allan Gray Entrepreneurship Challenge, the Allan Gray Scholarship Programme, the University Fellowship Programme, and supports the Association of Allan Gray Fellows. These initiatives aim to equip young people with the skills, mindset, and networks to drive meaningful social and economic change. Instagram · Twitter