The Ikusasa Cross Mentorship Programme is a programme designed to assist Grade 11 learners identify and harness their leadership and academic potential. Tomorrow, Saturday 19 March 2016, we kick off the 2016 series with our brand new group of Grade 11’s. The project was initiated in 2008 in Gauteng under the Bokamoso (‘look to the future” in Sotho) brand. In 2014, a strategic decision was taken to expand this programme to Kwazulu Natal under the Ikusasa (“The future” in isiZulu) brand. Schools and students from the greater Durban area as far west as KwaNyuswa and north as Ntuzuma participate in this programme.
The programmes outreach has impacted on thousands of learners, and the intake of schools and students continues to grow.
Young graduates and professionals from various professions and walks of life act as mentors, and impart their knowledge and experiences with the group of mentees through a structured series of themes, delivered over 9 monthly sessions throughout the year. The 10th session is a field trip each year.
The themed pillars of the programme include: Leadership, Academic Excellence, Career and Personal Development, Active Citizenry and Culture, History and Heritage.
Homework, team and personal reflection and improvement exercises in between sessions increases the impact of this programme for the students.
Whilst the programme is workshop based, expectations related to attendance, participation, academic results, completion of assignments, are communicated and agreed between the IKCMP mentors and mentees. This makes the programme a measurable commitment for everyone involved.
The programme is supported by Brand SA and Investec amongst others. If you’re keen to experience the programme or join us as a mentor, facilitator, partner this year, email info@ignitesa.com
Lynette Ntuli 