The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation directs its resources towards nurturing the education and growth of individuals in Southern Africa who possess the potential to become successful entrepreneurs. The foundation’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that these ambitious, inquisitive, and conscientious young individuals have the ability to bring about a significant, constructive, and long-lasting impact on the economic landscape of the communities, cities, and potentially even the country where they choose to establish their enterprises.
The foundation runs a number of programmes which include:
- The Allan Gray Entrepreneurship Challenge;
- A Scholarship Programme; and
- A Fellowship Programme.
For more detail on the respective programmes refer to their website. Currently, applications are open for the Fellowship programme with the application process closing on the 28th of April 2023.
Through the Fellowship Programme, the organization extends beyond providing university students with a mere degree, and instead equips them with a multifaceted skill set that enables them to excel in their chosen fields. The programme imparts a holistic approach to problem-solving, emphasizing the importance of utilizing individual perspectives to identify and address gaps and inefficiencies. Additionally, the programme emphasizes conducting business in a manner that is both inclusive and innovative, fostering inspiration within the students. This results in profound personal growth, empowering students to embark on a lifelong journey of making a positive impact on the world.
The Fellowship Programme’s core objective is to foster an entrepreneurial mindset among Candidate Fellows, instilling in them a passion for responsible entrepreneurship. By the end of the programme, they should have a keen appreciation for entrepreneurship as a viable career path and possess the skills necessary to transform an idea into a promising opportunity. Additionally, the programme seeks to impart an understanding of the Foundation’s value propositions, while emphasizing the significance of community and collaboration.
Beyond providing financial and academic assistance, every candidate is assigned a dedicated team consisting of a Personal Development Officer, who offers guidance and support throughout their transition into a new environment. An Entrepreneurial Leadership Officer is also assigned, who challenges candidates to explore and expand their entrepreneurial capabilities. Furthermore, an industry mentor is assigned to each candidate, offering insights into the entrepreneurial traits and concepts that are relevant in the professional world.
What all does the Fellowship Programme cover:
- Applicants with a combined annual household income of R1 million and below will receive full funding. Applicants with a combined annual household income of above R1 million will receive funding on a needs basis;
- Speakers and seminars;
- Experiential exercises;
- Workshops;
- Access to business incubation;
- Access to business/venture funding via E Squared, an Allan Gray Orbis Foundation sister entity;
- Mentorship;
- Responsible thinking and entrepreneurial mindset.
University Partners
The programme has partnered with 11 South African universities which include:
- Eastern Cape
- Rhodes University
- Nelson Mandela University
- Western Cape
- University of Cape Town
- University of the Western Cape
- TSiBA
- Stellenbosch University
- Gauteng
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Witwatersrand
- KwaZulu-Natal
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Free-State
- University of the Free State
Applications close on the 28th of April 2023, so head to their application for setting out important information covering pre-requisites and requirements to apply as well as other useful information as well as the form if you looking to apply manually through the form.
If you are wanting to and able to apply online, then head to the below online application form.
And GOOD LUCK!