KFC Ikusasa Lethu Scholarship: helping families rewrite their narrative

23 March 2021 - Johannesburg, South Africa - The inaugural KFC Ikusasa Lethu (our future) scholarship programme is now officially underway with 25 pupils who were selected across the country last year, starting their new academic year. The Scholarship programme provides access to quality education to deserving learners whose parents work for a KFC restaurant and to children who are Add Hope beneficiaries across South Africa.

The scholarship has been designed in partnership with the Curro Group of Schools who have 76 campuses across the 9 provinces. Learners who met the selection criteria will remain recipients of the programme as long as they meet specific annual requirements, until they matriculate.

“The program is aptly called “Ikusasa Lethu”, which is isiZulu for “our future” and is designed to assist KFC team members and their families to rewrite their narrative,” says Akhona Qengqe, Chief People Officer at KFC Africa. “Education is a critical cornerstone to a bright future not only for our youth, but also their communities. This programme gives our selected candidates the chance to not only access quality and private education, but also take a step forward in making their careers dreams a reality.”

Maxine Musariri is one of the 25 learners selected to participate in the programme at the end of 2020. Maxine is in grade 11 this year and received an Ikusasa Lethu scholarship to attend Curro Creston College in Port Shepstone. Maxine’s mother, Rita Musariri is a KFC Restaurant General Manager in Margate and has been part of the brand for 21 years.

“I was so happy when I heard the news,” says Rita Musariri. “This is an awesome thing to happen for a child – something one can usually only dream of. It feels like we have won the Lotto – doors have opened for her and her goal of being a doctor is becoming a reality. I still can’t believe it is true!”

While this year marks the first year of the programme, KFC’s purpose-led culture and commitment to youth development will ensure that not only does the scholarship continue for years to come, but that they are able to increase the number of selected students each year.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank KFC and Curro for everything they’ve done for our children,” says Sibongiseni Hlongwa, mother of Anele, one of the chosen recipients of the scholarship programme in KZN. “Anele is so excited to go to school and tells awesome stores about how amazing the school is. We are grateful ever; y day.”

“We are exceptionally proud to be able to help 25 lucky learners in furthering their education. The application process is vigorous and depends on the applicant’s academic results so its testament to the hard work that these learners have put in. Their attitude towards their education and their excitement as they start this journey is contagious and we wish them the very best of luck,” concludes Qengqe.

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Lebo Mashangoane
Senior Account Executive

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lebo@orangeink.co.za
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