Frequently Asked Questions

Candidate Selection

I know a person who is in need of funding. How can they apply to become a candidate?

We do not have a formal application process to become a candidate. If you know somebody who you think would meet our criteria, you can use the contact form to let us know a bit about them and why you think they would be an ideal candidate. Please ensure that you have familiarised yourself with our core values and our process before you recommend a candidate.

do you consider affirmative action in choosing your candidates?

We subscribe to the principle of non-racialism enshrined in the Constitution of South Africa. Our criteria are objective and needs- based, and we do not take into account race as a qualifying criteria for candidacy.

I/a person I recommended was not selected for candidacy. can i appeal this decision, or request reasons for the decision?

All candidacy decisions are taken by the Board of the Foundation as a collective, and all such decisions are final. It is incumbent on prospective candidates that they provide all relevant information for the Foundation to make an appropriate decision. Additionally, the Board considers the sustainability of the Foundation when taking on a new candidate, in order to ensure that current candidates are not prejudiced through an over-dilution of available funds - as a non-profit organisation dependent on donor funds, limited resources are unfortunately a reality which must be considered when deciding whether or not a new candidate may be admitted.

The Board does not furnish reasons for its decisions regarding candidacy.

Donations

are my donations tax-deductible?

The Foundation is currently in the process of obtaining approval from the South African Revenue Services (SARS) to issue so-called Section 18A receipts, which will permit South African donors to deduct their donations from their taxable income. However, currently donations are not deductible.

In the longer term, the Foundation intends to register a separate entity in the Netherlands and apply for charitable organisation status, which will allow EU-based donors to deduct their donations from their taxable income.

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am i allowed a say in how my donation is used by the foundation?

Donors may either elect to donate an amount in favour of a specific candidate, or in favour of the Foundation's General Fund. Donations in favour of a specific candidate will be used only for that Candidate; General Fund donations will be used in accordance with the decisions of the Fund's Board of Directors. Beyond this election, donors are not permitted a say in how their donation is used. Please see our terms and conditions for more detailed information regarding how the Foundation applies donations, in accordance with our Memorandum of Incorporation and SARS requirements.

I wish to revoke my donation. how do i do this?

Donations to the Foundation are irrevocable. In addition to providing greater operational stability, this is also a SARS requirement the Foundation must adhere to in order to remain a Public Benefit Organisation. In certain circumstances, where a bona fide error has been made by a donor, the Board may elect to refund some or all of a donation. Please see our terms and conditions for more information.