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In today’s world, with its constant distractions and challenges, resilience is more crucial than ever. I’m Kate, an educator and leader, and I’m here to share insights on resilience from my experiences at the Good Work Foundation.
My journey began in Philippolis, where I saw firsthand the educational inequalities between rural and urban communities. This ignited a fire in me to make a difference in the world of education.
Equal opportunities for all
I believe that everyone, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to learn and connect with the world. This belief is the driving force behind the Good Work Foundation, which provides young people in rural South Africa with access to quality education and tools to innovate for their communities.
At the Good Work Foundation, we harness the power of collective energy and a shared vision to build resilience. Each day starts with a gathering under our digital tree, where staff and students meditate and sing together. This aligns our energy and creates a strong sense of community. We gather under the tree because, in Africa, we learn from the elders and teachers under the tree. It is a tradition to sit under the tree. Our elders and teachers can be anywhere in the world because we are digital.
Learning to regroup
Another key aspect of resilience is the ability to “stop, regroup, and get going again.” I recall a group of young people who learned to code and build a robot in a single day. The lesson? It’s not just about coding; it’s about teamwork and problem-solving – skills that are essential for navigating life’s challenges. If you learn this at the age of nine or ten, it sets you up for a good path going forward.
It is important to be thoughtful and make the decision to stop, regroup, and get going again. The ability to get started again is a big part of being resilient.
The Importance of trust and diversity
My perspective on resilience emphasises the importance of community, collective energy, and a shared vision. When everyone is aligned in purpose, motivation thrives.
I’ve learned to trust myself, even when others question my methods.
Surrounding myself with a diverse team has also been crucial to our success.
I hope my insights resonate with you. How can you apply these principles in your own life and work?
More about Kate Groch
A passionate educator and social entrepreneur, Kate Groch is the Founder and CEO of Good Work Foundation (GWF). Driven by a deep commitment to bridging the digital divide in rural South Africa, she has established six digital learning campuses that provide access to world-class education and technology. Kate’s innovative approach and dedication to creating wonder-filled learning experiences are transforming the lives of young South Africans.
