Tomorrow Trust at 20: Two Decades of Humanising Education and Transforming South Africa’s Future

20 Years of Walking Alongside Learners Last year, Tomorrow Trust marked 20 years of walking alongside young people on their education journeys. Founded on the belief that holistic support academic, emotional, social and financial enables learners to thrive, the organisation has grown into one of South Africa’s most comprehensive education models. Today, Tomorrow Trust supports learners from Grade R through to postgraduate level, creating a true playground-to-professional pathway and a nationally recognised blueprint for sustainable impact. The milestone was more than a celebration. It was a moment to reflect on what it takes to humanise education in a deeply unequal society and how two decades of commitment have reshaped thousands of lives. A Model Built on Continuity and Care At the heart of Tomorrow Trust’s approach is a simple philosophy: keep every child on the bus. Symbolised by a painting in the Trust’s boardroom, this principle guides a model that extends far beyond academics to include psychosocial support, career guidance, digital access, mentorship and wellbeing. A National Footprint with Local Roots Over 20 years, Tomorrow Trust has built a presence across rural and township communities, supporting more than 3 900 young people through long-term partnerships grounded in trust and shared purpose. Measurable Impact Across the Education Journey Holiday & Saturday School Programme Since 2010, 1 131 learners have completed Grade 12 through the programme, with 76% achieving bachelor passes compared to the national average of 41%. Beyond school, 88% of alumni are employed, studying further or in development pathways, with one in three working in STEM-related fields. Tertiary Programme Since 2005, the tertiary programme has supported 1 018 graduates, achieving a 91% success rate. Eighty percent of graduates are in permanent employment or early-career roles, 10% are pursuing postgraduate studies, and 70% are working in fields aligned to their qualifications. Economic and Social Value Between 2016 and 2024, R176 million was invested in Tomorrow Trust programmes. Graduates are projected to contribute R2.05 billion to South Africa’s economy over the next 15 years, with R461 million returning as income tax. Alumni have already reinvested R2.5 million to support future learners. Looking Ahead These outcomes reflect an education model that builds human, social, cultural and symbolic capital equipping young people not only to succeed academically, but to believe they belong and can thrive. As Tomorrow Trust enters its next chapter, the focus remains clear: deepen impact, strengthen partnerships, and ensure every learner, regardless of circumstance, can stay on the bus long enough to arrive.