In May, a group of long-time supporters joined us in Cape Town to meet students, visit apprenticeship sites, and see our programming in action. Here’s what they experienced.
At Philippi Village — a dynamic community hub and long-standing partner — supporters joined students for a powerful Learning Connect. Each Friday, Learning Connects offer a dedicated space for students to pause, reflect, and make meaning of what they’re seeing across Cape Town. Whether in their apprenticeships or community interactions, Learning Connects help students connect the dots between personal growth and the complex systems they’re engaging with.
Ubuntu in Action: “I Am Because You Are”
This particular Learning Connect focused on Ubuntu: “I am because you are.” Students and supporters began the morning in a circle, exploring how their learning journeys have been shaped by the people around them—from peers and mentors to the communities they’re serving.
Students engaged in guided reflection using questions grounded in the program’s curriculum pillars of self-awareness and global perspective-taking. Through storytelling and honest dialogue, students revisited early assumptions and unpacked how their real-world experiences are deepening their understanding of social impact and systems change.
“Meeting the students in Cape Town was so energizing and inspiring. They’re not waiting for permission or the ‘right time’, they’re already driving change in their communities in really bold and innovative ways. What makes this model of learning so effective is that they’re not doing it alone. Tilting Futures surrounds them with the right structure, support, and global network to keep showing up and scaling their impact throughout their lives and careers.”
— Imani Dunbar, board member
A highlight of the day was the student-led Ancestor Walk. Designed and facilitated entirely by students, the experience invited participants to consider how their actions honor those who came before — and impact those who will come after. In small groups, students led thoughtful conversations on intergenerational responsibility, legacy, and civic duty.
Amplifying Voices: Behind the Mic at Bush Radio
Later, supporters visited Bush Radio, Africa’s oldest community radio station and one of our student apprenticeship sites. Often called “the mother of community radio in South Africa,” Bush Radio has been amplifying grassroots voices for decades.
Students apprenticing here are not just learning media skills — they’re learning how storytelling can be a force for justice. Seeing them in action — producing content, shaping narratives, and contributing meaningfully to Bush Radio’s mission — was a vivid example of what experiential learning can make possible.
Want to see the impact up close?
We periodically invite members of our donor community to join site visits and experience Tilting Futures in action. If you’re interested in learning more about future opportunities to connect – virtually or in-person – let us know.
