About Us
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation oversees the Award Programme in over 130 countries and territories globally, with 18 countries in Africa. The Programme currently has over 1 million active participants globally with about three hundred thousand of the total participants based on the African Continent.
The Award is a leading structured (non-formal education) youth development programme, empowering youth aged 14-24 to explore their full potential and find their purpose, passion and place in the world, regardless of their location or circumstance. The Award is a fully inclusive programme and has no social, political, or religious affiliations.
Our Vision
To reach more young people from diverse backgrounds and equip them as individuals to succeed in life.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower young people between the ages of 14 to 24, through a balanced non-competitive framework for self development, enabling them to become responsible, active citizens within their communities.
Our Ambition
Every eligible young person in South Africa will have the opportunity to participate in the Award.
The Award Staff Members
Adele Latchman holds a Post-Graduate diploma in Strategic Social Engagement practice. Based on the varying positions she held over the years, she has acquired a diverse range of experience within several business sectors and industries.
Motivated by her passion to succeed in the social environment space, together with her commitment to making a difference in society, she accepted the offer to join The President’s Award as CEO in August 2020.
She is a firm believer in working hard and being passionate in all that she does and themes her life on a famous quote by Mother Theresa, “It’s not about how much you do, but how much love you put into what you do that counts”.
Mathawe Matsapola is a COMENSA Certified Life Coach, entrepreneur, seasoned journalist and editor with 17-years' experience in the media industry. Mathawe's personal mission is to positively impact lives, serve with honesty and integrity. She firmly believes in continuous learning and self-development. Mathawe is a professional who stands for values such as respect, honesty, integrity, accountability and Ubuntu.
Mathawe holds a National Diploma in Legal Assistance; Certificate in Journalism for Communicators; also has several further training certificates which includes Life Coach Certificate and is a member of COMENSA and also International Coaching Federation (ICF); CORE First Line Management Supervisory Skills Programme with DYNA Training; Leadership and Management Development Programmes with Solstice and Graduate School Of Business; Basic Reporting and Writing for Print; Family Law Mediation just to mention a few. Mathawe is currently enrolled for an LLB with UNISA.
"When it comes to your life, you have the power to change your story and write a new narrative. Use the pen in your hand correctly," Mathawe Matsapola.
Mandy joined the Award in June 2012 in order to assist the Western Cape Office with administrative and event management responsibilities. She has event management experience and that is clearly displayed in how she contributes to the Western Cape Office. “To be part of a team that inspires our youth to become better human beings makes me a better person too.” Mandy can be reached on mls@presidentsaward.co.za.
Martin is a passionate secondary school English and Life Orientation Teacher with five years of experience. TEFL-certified, final year Bachelor of Education international student at Alphacrucis College with a heart for teaching and student development. Besides his experience in the Education sector, Martin enjoys soccer and was an Football writer & editor. Martin can be reached on mk@presidentsaward.co.za.
Qhama is a Gold Award Holder and has been part of the team since November 2019 as Programme Coordinator servicing the Eastern Cape region. Qhama can be reached on qd@presidentsaward.co.za.
Alfred comes from a teaching background and has been involved a lot with sports development in schools. “It’s an honour to be part of a prestigious Award such as The President’s Award”. Alfred can be reached on ap@presidentsaward.co.za
Shani joined the Award family in March 2007 and is the Administrator for KwaZulu-Natal. Having completed a secretarial course and worked for a local estate agent, Shani contributes positively to our administrative needs within the organisation. “It is a great experience being part of a team of good people, who are doing good work, to make sure that our youth are equipped to meet the challenges facing them.” Shani can be reached on sos@presidentsaward.co.za
Mfundo Gwamanda is a TPA rising star. He obtained all three Awards, Bronze Silver and Gold during his high school career in Howick. As a result of this, he obtained the Boston Higher Certificate Bursary and subsequently was appointed as the KwaZulu Natal Programme Manager. Mfundo has been the creator of his own success through hard work and dedication. He is a young, dynamic person who understands the inner workings of the Award and how to use the Award to create a future for yourself. Mfundo can be reached on mg@presidentsaward.co.za.
The History of the Award
Founding of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award was founded in 1956 by HRH Prince Philip, Kurt Hahn, a German educationalist, and Lord Hunt, leader of the first successful ascent of Everest. The idea was born in response to their concerns about the development of boys post World War II, due to the gap between leaving school at 15 and entering National Service at 18.
Evolution of the Award
Although initially only available to boys aged between 14 and 18, there was great demand for a similar scheme for girls, and this was launched in September 1958.
Development of Skills Sections
In 1980, the upper age limit was extended to 25 and the Award took on its current four-Section format of: Service, Adventurous Journey, Skills and Physical Recreation.
Founding of The Gold Shield Award in South Africa
In 1983 the Award was introduced in South Africa under the banner of the Gold Shield Award, with Dr Ian Player as the first Chairman.
Rebrand to The President’s Award for Youth Empowerment
In 1994 it was re-launched as The President’s Award for Youth Empowerment, with Mr Nelson Mandela as the Founding Patron-in-Chief.
Board of Trustees
Modise Makhene
Acting Chairman
Dr. Warren Clewlow
Trustee
Vuyelwa Masangwana
Trustee
Brad Serebro
Trustee
David Sand
Trustee
Nicola Jackson
Trustee
Chairman's Message
World-class organizations are defined by certain core characteristics: expertise, innovation and passion for serving.
I am humbled by and honoured to work alongside a group of dedicated Trustees, an exceptional and innovative leadership and operations team and a passionate volunteer network of teachers, parents and community leaders who have joined forces with us to serve our young people in South Africa.
Trustee's Responsibilities
- Trustees are responsible for leadership and good governance of The President’s Award.
- Trustees are also responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements in accordance with a generally accepted accounting framework
Frequency of Meetings
The Trustees meet once a quarter and consider financial and narrative reports presented to them by the CEO. An Annual General Meeting is held each year.
Our Sponsors
