South African 'Umicare'(Umicore cares) kids
Helping disadvantaged youngsters is not a new idea. Particularly in South Africa, where many different programs are going on – but Umicore’s is unique.
Umicore Autocat South Africa (UACSA) is running the Umicare programme, also enthusiastically supported by our Joint Venture partner the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).
Umicare sees education as the best way to help both the country and the individuals. Rather than spreading resources too thin, it focuses on giving a few kids a tertiary education.
Umicore found five perfect candidates in Eastern Province Child & Youth Care Centre in Port Elizabeth. The ‘Umicare kids’ had different backgrounds, but they’d all had an unlucky start in life. Now, with the prospect of a decent education, they can aim for a career and a happy life. In return, they have to study hard – and be good!
Today, all five are getting better marks and two girls are going for their Matric (High school Diploma) this year.
The Umicare kids from left to right: Helga Brandt, Nadia Luphuwana, Patrick Boucher, Michelle von Holsteinand Jeremy Maconie.