Donald White/ Mandla A. Ndwanya Memorial Fund Bursary South Africa 2026

The Donald White/ Mandla A. Ndwanya Memorial Fund was established in 2012 to honour the legacy of Donald White, a lifelong educator, and Mandla Andrew Ndwanya, a passionate advocate for business studies in South Africa. To continue their impact, the White family created the fund to support students in Nyanga, Gugulethu, and surrounding communities.

In 2017, the Fund was officially registered as an NPO in the United States and formed a Board to guide its mission. The Fund is dedicated to raising charitable donations to support learners, transform lives, and promote educational opportunities for both South African and American students.

The Fund assists primary school learners at Mkhanyiseli Primary School and John Pama Primary School by providing school uniforms and shoes. In addition to bursaries for higher education, it also supports internship opportunities for U.S.-based students in Cape Town through its partnership with Volunteer Adventure Corps (VAC).

Fields of Study Covered

The bursary supports undergraduate qualifications in the following fields:

• Business Studies
  
• Commerce
  
• Education
  
• Healthcare
  
• Medicine
  
• Social Work
  

Who Can Apply

Applicants must meet the following entry requirements:

• Must have completed Matric
  
• Must have attended high school in the Western Cape
  
• Must be studying or intending to study toward an undergraduate qualification in one of the listed fields
  
• Must be studying or intending to study at a recognized South African FET College or University
  
• Must demonstrate financial need
  
• Must be passionate about community service
  
• Preference given to first-generation students entering higher education
  

What the Bursary Covers

The bursary provides R10 000, which may be used for:

• Registration fees
  
• Textbook costs
  
• Technology-related academic expenses
  

The bursary does not cover historical debt or outstanding student loans.

Selection is based on:

• Motivation to pursue higher education
  
• Community service involvement
  
• Personal values and commitment
  

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Application Process

Follow the steps below to apply:

Email your completed form and supporting documents to:
[email protected]
Use the subject line: “White Ndwanya Memorial Fund Bursary 2026”

Required Documents

Submit clear copies of the following:

• Certified copy of ID
  
• Certified copy of Matric certificate
  
• Full academic record if already studying
  
• Parents’/guardians’ proof of income:
  
  • Payslips if employed
    
  • Affidavit if unemployed
    
  • Proof of pension or SASSA grant if applicable
    

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Final Thoughts

The Donald White/ Mandla A. Ndwanya Memorial Fund Bursary provides meaningful financial support to students who show academic potential, community involvement, and financial need. By prioritising first-generation and Western Cape learners, the fund plays an important role in empowering students to access higher education and grow into future leaders.