Listen to podcast
At Good Work Foundation, we’re not just creating leaders for ourselves; we’re creating leaders for our communities, for South Africa. We see our young staff members stepping up and fulfilling leadership roles beyond our walls — whether it’s in a church, a community forum, or even starting their own non-profits and social enterprises. It’s incredible to witness the ripple effect that starts with Good Work Foundation and extends through each of our staff members into their communities. This is what drives us: the knowledge that we’re empowering individuals to transform not only their own lives but the lives of those around them.
More than a job
Our students graduate with a view of service. They’re not just looking for jobs; they’re driven to make a difference. They become part of an alumni network that connects them to jobs, but more importantly, it mentors them as they launch their own initiatives to address the needs they see in their communities. This is what sets our programme apart. We’re not just teaching skills; we’re instilling a spirit of service and a desire to contribute to something bigger than oneself.
Resilience through education
We believe that resilience is crucial, not just for our organisation, but for the entire country. We want to see a resilient South Africa, and education is the key. It’s not just about the technical skills, but also about personal growth and the ability to interact effectively with others. We aim to provide holistic education that equips our students with the tools they need to thrive in all aspects of their lives.
Unlocking potential
Our programmes focus on helping students discover who they are and what unique contributions they can make to the planet. We want to unlock the potential within each individual, empowering them to improve their lives, the lives of their families, and the well-being of their communities. We believe everyone has something unique to offer, and our job is to help them find it and nurture it.
The enormity of community
It’s amazing to see how our students are becoming part of a growing ecosystem of learning and working that is transforming the entire region. This network of support and collaboration is essential for building resilience. When people feel connected to a community, they’re not alone; they have a network to rely on when facing challenges. We build this sense of community within our programmes and encourage our students to build strong connections with each other and with their communities.
Creating futures
I’m incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made. We’ve seen students start with us on the building crew and rise to lead our operations department. We’ve seen students from challenging backgrounds become leaders in our social enterprise village and across our IT department. The most amazing thing is witnessing young people step into themselves and create their own futures when given the opportunity. As a leader, seeing our students ready to manage and guide this space is the greatest reward. It’s a testament to the transformative power of education and the incredible potential that exists within each individual.
My definition of resilience
For me, resilience is about understanding who I am, embracing my role as an educator, and putting myself in service of others. It’s about connection, contribution, and figuring out how to make life better for myself and for others. It’s about getting up every day and asking, “What can I do today to make a difference?” It’s about finding the strength to keep going, even when things get tough, and using challenges as opportunities for growth.
A stronger future is realised in partnership
We’re grateful for the network of partners who support our mission and help us stay resilient, especially during South Africa’s challenging times. We believe that by working together, we can continue to move forward as an organisation and as a country. We are committed to building a brighter future for South Africa, and we invite you to join us on this journey.
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.
