Celebrating a Decade of Leadership Excellence | Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme

This year we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town. During this time, we have educated more than 400 young leaders from over 20 African countries who are academically gifted but face significant social and economic barriers to opportunity. Nonetheless, they have shown a remarkable sense of social responsibility to transform themselves and their communities positively. As trailblazers, change makers and innovators, our Mastercard Foundation Scholars are a force for good in bending the arc of hope towards a world in which everyone can learn and prosper.

This decade of impact is a wonderful testament to the power of strategic partnerships in connecting nations, youth, universities, governments, partners, non-governmental organisations and communities for progress. It amplifies the importance of investments in academic excellence, ethical leadership, social consciousness, the spirit of service and building of better communities. These catalysts are critical for developing youth, dismantling barriers, unlocking human potential and advancing inclusive prosperity, as the foundation for redefining the continent and the world.

Our amazing Mastercard Foundation Scholars are engineers, lawyers, educationists, entrepreneurs, policymakers, business professionals, health scientists, life scientists and social scientists, all of whom are working creatively to making life better. They are finding innovative solutions to African and international challenges of climate change, social justice, health disparities, quality education, communication, food, water, transportation, housing, entrepreneurship, peace, diplomacy, artificial intelligence and planetary exploration amongst many. Majority of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni have continued their studies at top universities, whilst the remaining majority are gainfully employed or pursuing dignified employment as entrepreneurs. Moreover, many Mastercard Foundation Scholars hold prestigious positions across many industries globally.