Communities
Growing Up Africa Talks
Building Sustainable Communities
Collective . Creative . Capital
The Growing Up Africa Project is reliant upon monetary, 'in-kind', and technical donations from both individuals and corporations. This generous support is crucial in realizing Growing Up Africa's goals of coming to the aid of the construction industry critically short on talent and skill, and allowing students of the building industry to receive real-world, hands-on experience; Growing Up Africa simultaneously train youth and empower communities.
The industry wins, principals network, communities thrive and students for their own networks. Students gain access to opportunities, learn critical workplace skills, teamwork, and public speaking, get exposure, and build goodwill while strengthening confidence and pride. We are a progressive initiative built up brick by brick by a small army of volunteers who are rich in spirit, passion, and commitment.
Growing Up Africa mentors are the construction industry's guidance counselors.
80% + of the construction budget is provided by in-kind; product sponsorship, materials, equipment, technical skills, and more.
Sponsors
are the lifeline
of our work
What Our Partners Say
'Deborah Terhune, the founder of Growing Up Africa, has enough energy and enthusiasm to keep the world spinning for another 100 years.'
William Reue
Principal, William Reue Architecture, New York City
Design Architect for the SOWETO Education Campus
'When I think of Deborah Terhune and the people who support Growing Up Africa, I think of a quotation from Aristotle from 2300 years ago – The only true success in life is to find yourself in service to society.'
Mitzi Purdue
Mentor
'We at SMEC are committed to continue our support for Growing Up Africa initiatives and particularly the Devland project.'
Kostas Rontiniris
CEO of SMEC South Africa
'The workers have also contributed immensely to the project. In turn, they have learned new skills and even leadership as they work together as a team alongside the students. Their experience can also translate to future employment prospects.'
Barry Beagen
Diller Scafido & Renfro
'Through our involvement with Growing Up Africa, we have been able to magnify the positive impact of our design work. It’s truly gratifying to know that the Devland project will be a much-needed resource for an entire community. In the end, it’s all about the self-empowerment gained through education.'
William Reue
Principal, William Reue Architecture, New York City
Design Architect for the Devland SOWETO Education Campus
'Growing Up Africa’s project-specific focus allows one’s charitable giving to make a huge, direct impact in changing people’s lives. It takes the dedication of a leader like Deborah Terhune to bring these important community-building projects to fruition. We are gratified to support GUA’s efforts.'
Robert Kaner
Principal, Robert Kaner Interior Design NYC
'What Growing Up Africa has done is so wonderful. It is encouraging us, as teachers, to come and work each and every day. When I finished my matric, I was lost. I didn’t have anywhere to go. But I found Happy Homes and Happy Homes found us. So, because of Growing Up Africa, I have more energy to come here and work. And when I wake up in the morning, I know that I am going to work.'
Oupa Mapuza
Venda University Graduate
'The reality is that we are living in a country that has a history of inequality, and I believe that, if we are going to level the playing field, this is going to be done through education. What makes this project unique is the international elements of it. We’ve got 28 students from Cornell coming from 17 countries, so the blending of cultures will integrate with the community of Cosmo City.'
Zandilla Manana
MassBuild Executive
'We make the structure work!'
Effort Mokoena
Principal Structural Engineer
Zanecebo Consulting
'The mayor’s visit gave the project a very high endorsement, which is rare. He was very impressed that we were using local building technologies such as the earth-bag system developed in Cape Town. In his speech, he aligned our project with the city’s overall vision for livable cities and resource sustainability.'
Barry Beagen
Diller Scafido & Renfro
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