About The Hands On Foundation

The Hands On Foundation Charitable Trust is a registered Public Benefit Organisation based in the Western Cape. We are transforming South Africa’s educational landscape by integrating technical and engineering faculties into mainstream schools, equipping learners with practical, industry-relevant skills that open pathways to employment and entrepreneurship.

Our Mission

Re-engineering Education in South Africa

South Africa urgently needs skilled engineers, electricians, designers and construction professionals. Yet technical education was removed from many mainstream schools decades ago, creating a widening skills gap.

We exist to close that gap.

The Hands On Foundation integrates fully equipped technical and engineering faculties within mainstream high schools, allowing students to study accredited technical subjects alongside their traditional curriculum while experiencing the fullness of school life.

Technical education is not an alternative. It is a bridge to opportunity.

Who We Help

Young South Africans with untapped potential who deserve access to practical, future-focused education.

Our Approach

We combine infrastructure, curriculum development, mentorship, industry partnerships and bursaries to create a complete pipeline from classroom to career.

The Future

The Future Is In Our Hands

When students are exposed to practical, hands-on learning, they gain confidence, clarity and purpose. They become creators, problem-solvers and innovators.

Our vision is bold.

By 2030, we aim to implement Technical and Engineering Faculties in 20 schools across South Africa, accommodating approximately 1,800 students per year.

Together with educators, industry partners and government, we are building leaders and empowering the next generation of technical minds.

Empowerment

Equipping scholars with technical skills, mentorship and real industry exposure.

Sustainability

Building long-term education infrastructure that feeds directly into tertiary study, trade and employment.

Our Impact

Measurable Impact. Real Results.

100%
Grade 12 pass rate in Engineering Graphic Design and technical subjects at Wynberg since 2020
82%
Of Wynberg graduates pursue tertiary studies in engineering and related fields
53
First LEAP Grade 10 technical cohort passed in 2025
31
Female students in the inaugural LEAP technical cohort

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Our Partners

Building A Future Together

Our Values

The Values That Guide Our Work in the Community

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Compassion

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Integrity

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Sustainability

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Collaboration

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Empowerment

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Inclusivity

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Trustees

Meet the Dedicated People Behind the Mission

Lisa White
Lisa White
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Lisa White

Communications Manager

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Tom Brown
Tom Brown
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Tom Brown

Outreach Coordinator

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Sara Lee
Sara Lee
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Sara Lee

Program Director

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Mike Johnson
Mike Johnson
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Mike Johnson

Fundraising Specialist

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Jane Smith
Jane Smith
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Jane Smith

Volunteer Coordinator

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John Doe
John Doe
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John Doe

Community Organizer

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Let’s Build the Future Together

Education is the most powerful tool to break cycles of poverty and inequality.

By supporting The Hands On Foundation, you are investing in real skills, real opportunity and real transformation.

Make a Donation to The Hands on Foundation

Make a donation
Support the build in a way that works for you. All donations are in South African Rand (ZAR).