Celebrating Our Learners’ Success
Behind every sponsorship is a child with a dream and a story worth telling. From overcoming personal hardship to excelling in school, these learners show remarkable strength and determination. Their stories remind us that when we invest in a child’s education and wellbeing, we invest in a brighter, kinder, and more hopeful tomorrow
Okopilwe - Elementary Learner
Okopilwe’s journey with the Journey Continues Foundation began in 2022 when she became the first learner we supported at Bronkhorstspruit Primary School. She was an eager 9-year-old Grade 4 learner who, after losing her father, was being raised by her mother alongside her younger sister. At just nine years old, Okopilwe shared that receiving the award meant she no longer had to worry about school finances for a while, a concern that is sadly a reality for many bereaved children. After learning that the family also had outstanding school fees for that year, and with the support of generous sponsors and donors, we were able to raise enough funding to cover almost her entire primary school education through to Grade 7. Throughout the years, Okopilwe has consistently performed well, remaining in the top 10 and earning multiple academic merits. Now in 2026, as she prepares to start high school, she shares an update with us.
Nosbusiso Masimula - Senior Learner
Hello everyone! My name is Nosbusiso Masimula, I am 18 years of age and the youngest of three children. My mother is a teacher and she raised us as a single parent after the unfortunate event of the loss of my father in the year 2015 when I was eight years old. Life was definitely different after that.
In the year 2024, when I was doing my grade 11, I had the honour of receiving an award from the EN Mohlala Foundation. It was a year’s worth tuition fee and a voucher for school uniform. I was dumbfounded. At the time of receiving the award I was so discouraged and i had been pleading with God to intervene. My mother was struggling to make ends meet, my results were not up to the required standard i had wished them to be for me to pursue my desired career,they were good don’t get me wrong,they were just not Amazing. When I received that award…It felt like God was relieving my mother of her financial burden and cheering me on to keep going,a silent yet public “i am with you”. I was so happy. It motivated me to not give up and keep pushing,to believe that it would be worth it in the end.
That year continued to be the best year of my life. I received many more awards such as a third place in a book review Competition among a group of more than 50 contestants , I was offered an opportunity to travel to the Uk for an academic tour,I maintained my top 10 position throughout my matric year and now I am waiting for my results which I know will be amazing. In 2026 I am expecting to be in university pursuing my degree in medicine and surgery and soon you will be calling me Dr Masimula!
Zizi - Elementary Learner
Zizi’s story reflects resilience and hope. After the passing of her father, her young mother was left to raise two children on her own. When Zizi received her award from the Journey Continues Foundation, she was just 8 years old, with her brother aged 9. The moment was emotional for Zizi and her family. Shortly after, her mother shared a video of the day she bought Zizi’s school uniform, with a South African gospel song playing in the background. It was a powerful reminder of the impact this support has on families. Let’s hear from Zizi and her mom.
Our Awards to the children:
Award Selection Criteria for learners:
To ensure that our support reaches the children who need it most, we work directly with local schools in Bronkhorstspruit to identify learners who meet specific criteria. Each school carefully selects students based on the following:
- Children who have lost one or both parents
These learners often face significant emotional and financial challenges at home, making consistent access to education difficult. Sponsorship helps relieve financial pressure on guardians and ensures the child can remain in school with dignity and stability. - Learners who demonstrate strong academic commitment
We prioritise children who show dedication to their schoolwork, whether through high grades, improved performance, or a clear motivation to learn. Supporting these learners not only nurtures their potential but also reinforces the value of education within their community.
The Cultura High school award
The Cultura High school award is the E.N Mohlala award, in honor of Pauline’s mom. In the school year 2023, 1 child’s fees were paid for by the foundation. In the 2024 school year, 2 children’s fees were paid for.
The Bronkhortspruit Primary School Award
The N.J Mohlala award, is the award in the Bronkhortspruit Primary School in honor of Pauline’s dad. In the school year 2023, 1 child’s fees were paid for by the foundation. In the 2024 school year, 6 children’s fees were paid for.