François Pienaar and a group of like-minded individuals shared a vision to develop academically talented scholars with leadership potential into future leaders for South Africa. Make A Difference Leadership Foundation NPC* was formed in 2003 to realise this ambition to transform South Africa – one scholar at a time. François Pienaar was appointed as the Founding Chairman and 15 businessmen made a personal commitment to the organisation and were appointed Members.
Make A Difference Leadership Foundation (MAD Leadership Foundation) is still working hard to fulfil the shared vision of the founding members to Make A Difference in the lives of talented, young South Africans with leadership potential.
It is the mission of MAD Leadership Foundation to provide academically talented scholars with exceptional leadership development opportunities through education and mentorship, in order to inspire a better future for South Africa.
Focusing on:
• Carefully selecting scholars with academic and leadership potential.
• Continuously developing, supporting and monitoring our scholars through an integrated, personal and comprehensive Scholarship Programme.
• Removing every barrier between potential and future success for our scholars.
• Maintaining a passion for what we do and what we want to achieve for the leaders of tomorrow.
• Adhering to strict corporate governance principles and financial integrity.
• Forming long-term professional partnerships with corporates, trusts, other organisations and individuals who are committed to our vision.
• Hosting dynamic fundraising initiatives locally and abroad.
• Creating a legacy to be proud of by nurturing the leaders and role models of tomorrow.