Because Talent, Not Opportunity, Should Determine a Girl's Future

In South Africa, more than 60% of young people aged 15–24 are unemployed and more than 40% between the ages of 25 to 34. Education remains one of the most powerful pathways to employment and economic mobility, yet access to quality education is still determined largely by circumstance rather than potential.

Talent is everywhere. Opportunity is not.

While many learners pass Matric each year, only a fraction will enter university, and between 35% to 60% of those who do, will drop out in the first year. Research consistently shows that the quality of a learner's high school education is one of the strongest predictors of tertiary success.

This is why the work of the Ruth First Jeppe Memorial Trust matters.

By providing academically talented girls from disadvantaged communities with access to quality secondary schooling at Jeppe Girls, mentorship and holistic support, we help ensure that their futures are determined by their ability, not their background.

The results speak for themselves:

These are not just statistics. They are future teachers, doctors, accountants, engineers and leaders who might otherwise never have had the opportunity to fulfil their potential.

Talent is everywhere. Opportunity is not.

With your support, we can continue closing that gap and ensure that a girl's future is determined by her ability—not her circumstances.

Ruth First Jeppe Memorial Trust

ruthfirstjeppetrust@jeppegirls.co.za

Should you wish to make a donation, payment is accepted by SnapScan or eft to Absa, Eastgate, Branch code 632005, Account number 4076706321. Many thanks.