Many regions in Africa face significant challenges in accessing quality education and healthcare, particularly affecting youths, orphans, and vulnerable children. They struggle against poverty, disease, and conflict, which hinder their ability to build a brighter future. This leads to high disease rates, insufficient educational opportunities, and a lack of leadership development programs to empower young people to instigate positive change in their communities. Despite global initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and inequality, millions of children and young adults across the continent still lack the opportunities they need to thrive. Thus, Tsitsi Masiyiwa co-founded the Highlife Foundation in 1996 alongside her billionaire husband, Strive Masiyiwa.
Higherlife Foundation is a social impact organisation dedicated to investing in human capital to develop individuals, strengthen communities, and promote sustainable livelihoods. Founded out of a deep sense of compassion and influenced by personal experiences of orphanhood, the foundation stands out due to its holistic practice. It aims to provide immediate relief and foster long-term, sustainable change.
Education is the key to unlocking economic opportunities. Yet, millions of children in Africa are unable to attend school due to financial constraints, poor infrastructure, or the impact of medical conditions. One of the ways Higherlife Foundation is impacting the globe is by making quality education accessible to those who need it most. They work tirelessly to provide scholarships and financial support to underprivileged children, ensuring they have access to the resources necessary to excel academically.
The foundation has provided educational support to over 250,000 learners, offering scholarships and mentorship to children aged 5 to 18 in Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and Burundi. They have also sponsored thousands of highly gifted students through their Capernaum and Joshua Nkomo flagship scholarship programs.
In addition to its educational initiatives, the Higherlife Foundation has made significant strides in improving healthcare for orphans and vulnerable populations. They aim to provide access to life-saving medical treatments and preventive care.
A notable example is the foundation’s work in combating HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis across Africa. The foundation partners with governments, healthcare providers, and international organisations to ensure that people in underprivileged communities receive the treatment they need.
Tsitsi Masiyiwa passionately understands that the future of Africa hinges on empowering young people. It is essential that they are not only equipped with technical skills but also possess a strong vision and value system to inspire and drive meaningful change. The Higherlife Foundation provides leadership programs that equip young people with essential skills and knowledge to become effective community leaders. By focusing on mentorship, personal growth, and entrepreneurship, the foundation promotes values of service, integrity, and social responsibility among future leaders.
Higherlife Foundation has successfully broadened its impact by establishing 30 learning hubs and obtaining a $6.4 million investment to fund international scholarships. The foundation has also supplied thousands of people with shelter, food, and medical supplies, demonstrating a holistic approach to community development.
As Africa confronts complex challenges, Tsitsi Masiyiwa provides hope, leadership, and significant support to vulnerable and orphaned children through the Higherlife Foundation. She is paving the way for a brighter future for all.
