To transform society through the power of education, in the process creating caring, confident and resourceful citizens.
To transform society through the power of education, in the process creating caring, confident and resourceful citizens.
To sustain a robust bursary programme that opens up opportunities and taps the potential of those who for too long were denied the chance to improve their own lot and the circumstances of their families and communities.
Compassion and care … for our beneficiaries and their communities, Integrity … in all our dealings, Diligence … in the fulfilment of our mandate, Transparency … assuring honest reporting to stakeholders and partners
The JB Marks Education Trust Fund was set up by NUM in 1997 to empower members and their dependents, particularly graduates entering the mining and related sectors. We are named after John Beaver Marks, a leading figure in the mineworkers’ struggle against exploitation. He was a vocal advocate of education as an empowerment tool and a vital weapon in the fight against poverty.
In our first year we could only help 53 beneficiaries. Our work has massively expanded since then and an important milestone was reached in 2017 when we became a 100% self-administered fund.
Those who go through our bursary programme – our alumni – have much in common. They typically come from disadvantaged backgrounds. They embrace the JB Marks mission and strive to help a new wave of students achieve their goals.
The first support group, the Core Team, was launched in 2008. These graduates and some students who were making a success of the programme were all volunteers. They established a tradition of self-help that today distinguishes the work of the JB Marks Alumni.
The Alumni plough back into the trust, contribute to our community outreach efforts and launch similar initiatives of their own. Alumni projects include:
Alumni high school career days
Adopt-a-school and donate a mobile science cabinet
Mandela Day charity drive
Car wash/book drive fundraising
The Network symposium
Fundraising gala dinner
Governance is rigorous. We report fully and regularly to stakeholders and donors. We are a registered Trust under Section 6 (1) of the Trust Property Control Act, 1988 (Act 57 of 1988) and a registered PBO. Our seven board members draw on experience from a wide range of industries. Our financial year-end is 31 December.
We have funded hundreds of learners.
