Cape Town, – Survé Philanthropies, the philanthropic arm of the Sekunjalo Group, has been at the forefront of creating equal opportunities and uplifting lives in South Africa.
With a strong belief in providing essential support and tackling pressing challenges, Survé Philanthropies has established various initiatives in education, healthcare, community development, supporting future leaders, and promoting human rights and social justice.
Chairman of the Sekunjalo Group and founder of Survé Philanthropies, Dr Iqbal Survé, spoke passionately about the organisation’s mission: “We firmly believe that everyone deserves equal opportunities to thrive. Through our philanthropic endeavours, we aim to unlock the potential of individuals and communities, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.”
Survé Philanthropies prioritises education due to its empowering potential. Through partnerships with educational institutions, Survé Philanthropies invests in mentorship, feeding schemes, provision of stationery, and vocational training. By granting underprivileged students quality education, Survé Philanthropies unlocks their potential, ensuring their success.
Youth empowerment is a key focus for Survé Philanthropies. Through entrepreneurship, leadership development, and mentoring initiatives, the organisation equips young people with skills and cultivates their leadership abilities. Workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities enable them to find innovative solutions to societal challenges, fostering a thriving and inclusive society. “By laying a solid foundation for our youth, we are paving the way for a brighter future for all,” said Dr Survé
To honour and acknowledge individuals, organisations, and institutions involved in initiatives that have made a social impact in various sectors, Survé Philanthropies launched the Imagine Awards in 2018. At the inaugural awards, 33 individuals and organisations were recognised for their contribution to development work in arts and culture, disability, technology, human rights, media, education, women, children, and poverty alleviation.
Organisations such as Lalela, the Kronendal Music Academy in Hout Bay and the BlaqPearl Foundation in Mitchells Plain, all recipients of Imagine Awards, have been exemplary in their work with young people through nurturing musical talent, the arts, literature, in order to break the cycle of drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, and gangsterism.
Inclusivity is central to Survé Philanthropies’ overall philosophy. Thus, individuals with mixed abilities or disabilities have not gone unnoticed.
The Friends Day Centre in Maitland, an NGO that provides care and education for learners with severe and profound disabilities and UNMUTE Dance Company have also been acknowledged for their incredible work with the differently abled.
Healthcare is remarkably close to the heart of its founder and therefore forms an important area of support for Survé Philanthropies. Over the years, the organisation has made significant contributions to this sector through the establishment of medical facilities, clinics, and outreach programmes. Additionally, they collaborated with medical professionals and organisations to offer free medical check-ups, vaccinations, and awareness campaigns, particularly in underprivileged communities.
Recognising the significance of strong and vibrant communities, Survé Philanthropies has undertaken various projects aimed at fostering community development. These initiatives include infrastructure development, access to clean water and sanitation, and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods.
“By investing in these areas, we have created opportunities for economic growth, improved living conditions, and enhanced community cohesion,” said Dr Survé.
Most recently the Sekunjalo Group and Survé Philanthropies made a sizeable contribution to the earthquake survivors in Turkiye. Working in collaboration with the Turkish Embassy in South Africa, Survé Philanthropies donated a few million rands worth of heaters, tents, blankets, and clothing to the survivors.
Collaborations and partnerships are part of the modus operandi of Survé Philanthropies. 24 individuals recently benefited from such a collaboration when Survé Philanthropies partnered with three non-profit organisations – Khidmatul Awaam, Lillah Foundation SA, and Rihlatul Umr – to cover the costs of their pilgrims to Mecca.
As Survé Philanthropies continues to make a tangible difference, their vision of social transformation and empowerment remains steadfast. By addressing pressing challenges, supporting future leaders, and promoting social justice, Survé Philanthropies is creating a legacy of positive change that will impact generations to come. Through their dedication, passion, and collaborative efforts, Survé Philanthropies exemplifies the transformative power of philanthropy in building a brighter and more equitable future for all South Africans.
“As Africans our greatest opportunity to make a difference lies inn transforming the social and economic landscape in Africa” – Dr Iqbal Survé.