This classroom is dedicated to the Yates family, whose devotion to Universal Promise is a family affair. It began in 2011 when Joe Yates, then a junior in high school, proposed bringing electricity to an informal settlement Universal Promise served in South Africa. Several months later, the entire family found itself on-site while Joe enjoyed an internship at a South African company that focuses on green energy systems. Following his one-week stint at Kestrel Renewable Energy, Joe and his family travelled to Addo, where he oversaw the erection of a wind turbine that has powered a nursery school and a community centre for years.
As a 13-year-old watching her older brother change lives, Jenny started planning her project for when she came of age. She opted to build an outdoor classroom for 100 Grade R children in Nomathamsanqa Township. Jenny collaborated with American teachers and South African educators to design and oversee the construction of an enormous “playground” that emphasizes physical, intellectual, and social development. The space, which includes a small version of a netball court and soccer pitch, vegetable gardens, two swing sets, a sandbox, racetracks, hopscotch grids, and a pretend market and clinic, is a symbol of the re-birth of a school. Its position in full view of those who pass by reminds everyone of the importance and wonder of play.
As Joe and Jenny carried out their efforts, parents Gail and Ted were by their sides, working intimately with the Xhosa population to bring impactful and sustainable initiatives to local schools. Gail and Ted also rolled up their sleeves as they grew enamoured of the resourcefulness, warmth, and music of their South African friends.
The Yates family truly values education and the role it plays in achieving independence and nurturing confidence. Universal Promise is grateful for their collective commitment and for the sacrifices they continue to make on behalf of our mission to achieve and sustain equity through education.
Honoured by Universal Promise