Catching up with UK board trustee Camille Burrows on her role in supporting GWF’s mission
When we heard that Camille Burrows, a trustee on Good Work Foundation’s UK board, had just landed for a quick visit to the motherland, we couldn’t wait to catch up with her. During her time in South Africa, Camille toured some of GWF's campuses and discussed her role as a trustee for Good Work Foundation’s UK and Europe fundraising arm.
Camille was announced as a trustee of the GWF UK board in April this year, alongside Mosidi Modise and her husband, Dominic, who chairs the board.
We got her thoughts on the journey ahead and the impact she envisions for GWF …
Camille, tell us about your experience of Good Work Foundation’s campuses
This was actually my first time visiting the Hazyview campus, and what an incredible experience it was. It was inspiring to see first-hand what the team has done in creating such a transformative learning environment.
Visiting the Sabi Sabi Game Reserve and talking to recent graduates further showed the impact that programmes offered by the Bridging Year Academy and Career Academies are having on the youth. I talked to the managers at the game reserve, and they are thrilled with the talent, work ethic and quick learning abilities of these young professionals produced by the GWF’s programmes. What Kate Groch and the team have accomplished here is nothing short of remarkable.
What impact has Good Work Foundation had on the communities it serves?
GWF is empowering young people by developing them into talented, motivated and hard-working professionals ready to step into meaningful careers. The foundation's programmes not only prepare students for immediate employment but also nurture entrepreneurial skills, allowing them to explore business opportunities. This focus on employment and entrepreneurship is helpful in building stronger communities full of skilled and confident individuals who can contribute to growing local economies.
What motivated you to take on the role of trustee for GWF’s UK and Europe fundraising arm?
When Kate asked me to become a trustee, I knew I had to visit the campuses and see the work for myself. My extensive experience in learning and development has shown me what effective educational programmes look like, and GWF best exemplifies this. I was motivated by the foundation's impactful work and the potential to further its mission by leveraging my network and expertise to support its growth and sustainability.
What are your responsibilities as trustee?
As a trustee, my main responsibilities include helping the organisation with corporate partnerships and driving fundraising efforts. Given my background in the corporate world, I have a huge network outside my current organisation, which I plan to engage in supporting GWF’s ambitions.
I’m looking to connect the foundation with potential corporate donors and sponsors who can contribute both financially and through providing expertise in areas like technology, data sciences, cybersecurity and AI. If we can raise awareness about GWF’s work and attract new donors and partners, we will be in a better position to secure the resources needed for the foundation to continue growing and evolving, particularly in tech-related fields crucial for future job markets.
How can people in the UK and globally get involved in and support Good Work Foundation’s mission?
People can get involved by becoming donors, sponsors or partners. I encourage everyone to visit the GWF campuses to see the work the foundation is doing. Whether through financial support, sharing expertise or spreading the word – every contribution can make a difference.
Is there a message you would like to share with the supporters and beneficiaries of Good Work Foundation?
To the supporters, I want to express my gratitude for your contributions, which are making a profound impact. For potential supporters, I urge you to consider partnering with GWF, as it is a superbly managed non-profit organisation with a proven track record of effectiveness. Kate and her team are not only passionate; they are also focused professionals running a high-quality operation.
To the beneficiaries, I just want to say: keep doing your best with the tools that GWF has given you. Use the skills you’ve gained to excel and become work professionals and entrepreneurs who will uplift your communities and move the country of South Africa forward.
