Monocle Foundation Bursary for South African Women

Established in 2014, the Monocle Foundation is a philanthropic educational trust committed to providing tertiary-level scholarships to previously disadvantaged black females. This initiative aims to transform lives by offering access to higher education and creating opportunities for personal and professional growth. With a vision to become a leading scholarship provider in South Africa, the Monocle Foundation is dedicated to investing in women and enabling them to achieve their full potential.

The Vision and Mission of the Monocle Foundation

The Monocle Foundation’s mission is centered around empowering women through education. By improving access to education, promoting financial literacy, providing essential resources, and advocating for gender equality, the foundation strives to make a significant impact on the lives of black women in South Africa. The foundation believes that investing in women not only benefits the individuals but also contributes to the development of society as a whole.

Commitment to Personal Development and Education

At Monocle, there is a strong emphasis on personal development, training, and education. This commitment extends beyond their employees to the wider society. The Monocle Foundation Bursary Programme is a testament to this commitment, offering comprehensive support to women of colour who have limited or no funding and are pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies in various fields.

Comprehensive Support Provided by the Bursary

The Monocle Foundation Bursary is designed to alleviate the financial burden of higher education and provide recipients with the tools they need to succeed. The bursary covers a wide range of expenses, allowing students to focus on their studies and future careers with confidence.

What the Bursary Covers

1. Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees for the duration of the recipient’s course.
2. Accommodation Fees: Financial support for accommodation, ensuring a safe and conducive living environment.
3. A Laptop: Provision of a laptop to facilitate research, assignments, and online learning.
4. Book and Study Material Allowance: An allowance for purchasing textbooks and other necessary study materials.
5. Subsistence Allowance: A subsistence allowance to cover living expenses.
6. Career Counselling: Access to career counselling services to help students plan and navigate their career paths.
7. Free MS Office Course: A free course on Microsoft Office to enhance digital literacy and proficiency.

Application Eligibility and Accepted Courses

The Monocle Foundation Bursary is specifically aimed at black females with limited to no funding. To be eligible, applicants must be South African students who are in their second year of study or higher. The bursary is available for a variety of graduate and postgraduate fields, including but not limited to:

• Accounting
• Computer Science
• Economics
• Engineering
• Finance
• Mathematics
• Medicine

Application Requirements

To apply for the Monocle Foundation Bursary, candidates must submit the following documents:

1. A Letter Addressed to the Trustees of The Monocle Foundation Trust: This letter should include information and background of the applicant, field of study, career ambitions, and motivation for applying for the bursary.
2. Latest CV: An up-to-date curriculum vitae.
3. Certified Copy of South African ID: Proof of citizenship.
4. Copy of Academic Record: An up-to-date academic record stamped by the university.
5. Copy of Graduate Degree: For graduates, a copy of the graduate degree.
6. Copy of Grade 12 Academic Certificate: Proof of secondary education.
7. Breakdown of Funds Required: A detailed breakdown of the funds required, including tuition fees, study support and books, accommodation, and subsistence allowance.

The Application Process

The application process for the Monocle Foundation Bursary involves several stages to ensure that the most deserving candidates are selected. Here is an overview of the process:

Screening

The initial screening involves a telephonic interview with the Trust Administrator. This step is designed to assess the applicant’s eligibility and suitability for the bursary.

Meet and Greet

Selected candidates will be invited for a personal meeting with the Trust Administrator. This meeting provides an opportunity for the administrator to get to know the applicant better and assess their potential.

Trustee Interview

Applicants who pass the meet and greet stage will have a one-on-one interview with one of the Trustees. This interview is crucial for understanding the applicant’s motivations, aspirations, and fit for the bursary program.

Finalisation

After the interviews, the Trustees will review all the information and make a final decision. Successful candidates will receive confirmation from the Trustees.

Important Dates and Application Submission

The closing date for applications is 8 November 2024. All applications must be submitted to The Monocle Foundation Trust before this date. Candidates will be shortlisted by the Trustees, and all applicants will receive feedback on the outcome of their application.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply for the Monocle Foundation Bursary by visiting the following link: Monocle Foundation Bursary Application.

Impact of the Monocle Foundation

Since its establishment in 2014, the Monocle Foundation has made a significant impact on the lives of numerous South African women. By providing access to education and essential resources, the foundation has empowered these women to achieve their dreams and contribute positively to society. The foundation’s focus on gender equality and personal development has not only transformed individual lives but also created a ripple effect, inspiring other women to pursue their educational and career goals.

Testimonials from Bursary Recipients

Many recipients of the Monocle Foundation Bursary have shared their experiences and the positive impact the bursary has had on their lives. Here are a few testimonials:

Thandeka M., Accounting Student: “The Monocle Foundation Bursary has been a life-changer for me. It not only covered my tuition and accommodation fees but also provided me with a laptop and study materials. The support I received allowed me to focus entirely on my studies and achieve excellent grades. I am now confident in my future career prospects, thanks to the Monocle Foundation.”

Zanele S., Engineering Graduate: “Coming from a disadvantaged background, I never thought I would have the opportunity to pursue a degree in engineering. The Monocle Foundation Bursary made it possible. The career counselling and MS Office course were invaluable in preparing me for the workforce. I am now working as a junior engineer, and I owe my success to the Monocle Foundation.”

Nokuthula D., Medical Student: “The financial support from the Monocle Foundation allowed me to continue my medical studies without worrying about expenses. The bursary covered everything, including my accommodation and subsistence allowance. I am grateful for the opportunities this bursary has provided and am determined to make a difference in the healthcare sector.”

The Future of the Monocle Foundation

The Monocle Foundation is continuously expanding its impact with aspirations to become a leading scholarship provider throughout South Africa. The foundation plans to increase the number of bursaries offered each year and broaden the range of supported fields of study. By doing so, the Monocle Foundation aims to empower even more women and contribute to the development of a more educated and equitable society.

Strategic Goals

1. Increase Bursary Numbers: Expand the bursary program to support more students each year.
2. Broaden Field Support: Include additional fields of study to cater to a wider range of academic interests and career aspirations.
3. Strengthen Support Services: Enhance career counselling, personal development training, and financial literacy programs for bursary recipients.
4. Promote Gender Equality: Advocate for gender equality in education and the workplace through partnerships and community outreach programs.

Community Engagement and Partnerships

The Monocle Foundation recognizes the importance of community engagement and partnerships in achieving its mission. By collaborating with educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and corporate partners, the foundation aims to create a supportive network that empowers women and promotes sustainable development.

Conclusion

The Monocle Foundation Bursary is a beacon of hope for previously disadvantaged black females in South Africa. By providing comprehensive financial and academic support, the foundation empowers women to pursue their educational and career goals, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and prosperous society. The Monocle Foundation’s commitment to personal development, gender equality, and community engagement sets it apart as a transformative force in the field of education. As the foundation continues to grow and expand its impact, it remains dedicated to changing lives and creating opportunities for the next generation of South African women.

For more information and to apply for the Monocle Foundation Bursary, visit Monocle Foundation Bursary Application.