Inherent in the Zulu greeting and in the grateful response the sense that until you saw me, I didn’t exist. By recognizing me, you brought me into existence.
“Ubuntu” means “I am, because you are.” In fact, th word ubuntu is just part of the Zulu phrase “Umuntu
ngumuntu ngabantu, ” which literally means that a person is a person through other people.
The depth of meaning that A languages carry is a wonder place to begin our journey t Africa.
“Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”
About Greg Ricks
for Little Wanderers in Boston. Throughout his life, he shared that he believed he won the lottery when he was adopted by Ted and Laura Ricks, of Brockton, Massachusetts. As a teenager, he attended the March on Washington with his parents, an event that transformed his life. He attended Hampton University before earning master's degrees in Urban Planning from MIT and Education from Harvard. With the support of his mentors, Greg went on to become the youngest dean at Northeastern University at age 23.
Greg became a leader in the growing service movement on campuses and in communities across America. In 1993, he played an instrumental role in the founding of AmeriCorps, which provided federal and state support for thousands of organizations across the country. At the request of President Bill Clinton, he facilitated AmeriCorps' first Town Hall Meeting in Philadelphia and later trained hundreds of AmeriCorps members. Greg went on to become the first dean at City Year, the Boston-based service and civic engagement organization, helping to recruit staff and expand its reach and impact. He also served on the boards of Campus Outreach Opportunity League (COOL), Public Allies, and YouthBuild USA, advancing opportunities for young people to serve and lead.
Through City Year, Greg fulfilled a lifelong dream of living in South Africa, where he helped build the Clinton Democracy Fellowship and launch City Year South Africa in 2005. Later, at Stellenbosch University, he worked to expand opportunities and support for first-generation students. Greg passed away in 2020, leaving behind his wife, Feriel; his sister, Wendy; his daughters, Keija and Chayla; and his son, Ethan.
About the Fellowship & Immersion
Hope Fellows—the Class of 2026 and the Class of 2027. Each Fellow brings unique experiences, perspectives, and a deep commitment to service, social justice, and lifelong learning.
Through a nine-day immersion, Fellows interact with and learn from educators, activists, and social change leaders from many walks of life and backgrounds, many of whom were inspired by Greg Ricks. While visiting and immersing themselves in Stellenbosch, Cape Town, and Johannesburg, Fellows meet and learn from changemakers of diverse backgrounds, ages, and experiences, gaining insight into the many paths to leadership and social change. Together, the cohort will explore South Africa’s history, current challenges, and hopes for the future while reflecting on parallels in the United States and around the world. Fellows will engage in arts and culture, visit significant sites, campuses, and organizations, and interact with youth, professionals, alumni, community leaders, and changemakers. Along the way, they will expand their networks, share their own stories, and gain valuable insights to support their growth as emerging leaders working toward a more equitable, safe, and just world.
The South Africa Immersion is the second trip for the Class of 2026, but just the beginning of the Fellowship journey for the Class of 2027. Following the immersion, 2027 Fellows will continue to meet monthly, primarily online. These workshops focus on the values, knowledge, and skills that equip Fellows to become lifelong changemakers. Each Fellow is paired with a coach who helps expand their network, offers guidance, and shares lessons from their own leadership journey.
Together, the Ripples of Hope Fellowship inspires and equips emerging leaders to pursue the issues they care about most and to create meaningful, lasting impact in their communities and beyond.
Immersion at a Glance
June 20
Sun. June 21
Mon. June 22
Tues. June 23
Welcome Dinner hosted by Stellenbosch LLL students
Opening Workshops at Stellenbosch Service Project with Songo info in Kayamandi
Indigenous Cultural Experience with the Koena Art Institute Ubuntu Night in Stellenbosch
Visit to Uyanda Foundati Fellowship Alumnus Athi Visit the Desmond & Leah Foundation Table Mountain
Robben Island Museum Visit to Athwood Primary Chapman’s Peak & Scenic
Wed. June 24
Thu June 25
Conversation with Rise ‘7 Tiisetso Mashifane wa No Visit to the Western Cape Parliament Flight to Johannesburg Dinner with KYP Facilitat
Soweto Tour with City Ye Members
Visit with Kliptown Youth Fellow-Led Workshops w Rise ‘76, written & directe winning playwright & dire Mashifane wa Noni
Apartheid Museum
Fri. June 26
Sat. June 27
Sun. June 28
Visit to Maharishi Invincibilty Institute Service Day in Alexandra Ubuntu Night in Johannesburg
Pilanesberg National Park Closing Workshop and Reflections
Game Drive in Pilanesberg National Pa Lunch and Souvenir Shopping in Rosebank Departure for Home
Living Ubuntu
changemakers, workshops, and shared experiences, each day’s theme will provide a lens for belonging. Ultimately, this Immersion is designed to shape our frame of vision so that we can
Sat. June 20
Sun. June 21
Mon. June 22
Tues. June 23
Wed. June 24
Thu June 25
“Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu.” A person is a person through other people.
Exploring Our Foundations “Art is not a mirror to reality, but a hammer with which to shape it.”
Extending Our Comfort Zones "People are trapped in history and history is trapped in them." — James Baldwin
The Long Walk to Freedom "The sun does not rush, yet it still crosses the sky."
Celebrating Community "Sticks in a bundle are unbreakable." — Bondei Proverb
Commit to systemic change "The child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth. Rain does not fall on one roof alone.” African proverb
Aurora Nothano
Anna Mazzi
Amaya Thabang
Fri. June 26
Sat. June 27
Sun. June 28
Keep Growing “Knowledge is a garden. If it isn’t cultivated, you can’t harvest it.” African Proverb
Expanding perspective "The wisdom of the elephant is known by all the trees it has touched.” Daunte Josie Ofentse
Embracing Community "They say we are the sum of all who have ever loved us.” J-Money Junior
Veteran Fellows Roles
During the South Africa Immersion, veteran Fellows will step into leadership by selecting one of five key roles that help shape the experience for the entire cohort. These roles provide an opportunity to practice servant leadership, strengthen facilitation and event-planning skills, and contribute meaningfully to the success of the journey.
Logistics Wizards Workshop Leaders
Sky, Jordan Sarah, Lwandisile Ash, Fletcher, Zandile
Logistics Wizards will work closely with the Lead Team to coordinate the flow of the Immersion – organizing supplies, transportation, and the movement of us and our belongings; overseeing set-up and clean-up, making sure everyone is accounted for; coordinating group photos, quick icebreakers, and time checks. The will also share logistics updates in morning/closing circles.
Workshop Leaders will work closely with the Program Team to design and facilitate workshops throughout the Immersion. They will help draw out the stories and insights of guest presenters, serve as facilitators and interviewers, guide workshop teams at sites such as Songo.info and KYP, and coach workshop teams to ensure their planned sessions are engaging, well-prepared, and run smoothly and on time.
Leaders of the Week Speakers & Emcees
Donay, Daunte, Jordan
Leaders of the Week will partner with incoming Fellows serving as Leaders of the Day. They will help plan and facilitate the morning circle and daily reflections. By serving as Leaders of the Week, Fellows will develop a deeper understanding of the schedule, logistics, and flow of the Immersion, enabling them to support their peers, provide guidance, and help ensure each day runs smoothly.
Ephemia, Jailen, Ryan, Khosikhadi, Thando
Speakers and Emcees will work closely with the Lead Team and partners to plan and facilitate Ubuntu Nights. They will welcome guests, provide an overview of the Fellowship, guide conversations, assist with graduation activities, and help engage partners, alumni, and other guests throughout the Immersion.
Leaders of the Day
Take a look at the schedule for your day and review the planned activities, organizations and programs, and the bios for our featured guests. Jot down any notes, concerns, or questions you have to discuss with the team. Meet with Logisitics Wizards to ensure all moving parts are ready to go for a smooth day!
Meet with your fellow Leaders of the Day 15 minutes early and lead the morning Strong Circle with the whole group.
As Leaders of the Day, what are some special notes or reminders that the entire group should know or be prepared for? Consider transportation, timing, weather (sunscreen, hat, rain jacket), or sensitive topics that might be covered today. Delegate leadership responsibilities amongst yourselves and consider whether you need to ask for volunteers to take up other pertinent tasks.
Serve as point person for questions and direction throughout the day.
Design and lead a 15-30 minute reflection for the group.
Consider your plan for reflection today, in light of the day’s activities and the theme/quote.
Choose 1-2 prompts or exercises to lead with the group. You can use the reflection cards as a resource. Be creative! You are free to split into smaller breakouts or use multiple modalities (e.g. reflective prompts in WhatsApp, photographs, art). Do you need additional support from others, or any supplies?
Though you will all work together, we suggest assigning each person a lead role related to these tasks:
Contextualizer:
Reviews the bios for guests/everyday (s)heroes and places/activities. Researches any historical context
Responsible for introducing guests and contextualizing activities
Logistics:
Reviews the timing of activities and considers any necessary preparations for the day
Responsible for timekeeping, keeping us on schedule, and facilitating smooth transitions
Community-Builder:
Considers how to deepen community bonds through reflection
Responsible for facilitating a relevant reflective activity to the day’s activities/theme
Saturday, June 20
Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu.
A person is a person through other people.
uestion: What has shaped you as a person, and your life story and journey? What experiences and perspectives are you bringing to this Immersion?
Everyone arrives in Cape Town, South Africa today! By 11:30am, everyone should have touched down in the area – whether international or domestic travel.
After a warm welcome (“Wamkelekile”) at the CPT airport, all Fellows will be transported to Stellenbosch University to kick off our Immersion! We will start with an orientation and move into our River Stories: mapping out our personal life experiences using the metaphor of a river.
We will then enjoy a Welcome Dinner hosted by Listen, Live, Learn (LLL) students (often shortened to “Triple L”) – today’s (s)heroes! LLL is both a literal and metaphorical home to a vibrant, diverse group of emerging leaders who seek to make a positive impact in society. You will have a chance to meet Thulani Hlatswayo, an accomplished educator and development practitioner currently serving as the LLL Programme Coordinator, as well as many LLL students!
We will end the evening with our Class of 2026 Fellows joining a student from Stellenbosch for a night in the dorms – living like a true Stellie – while the Class of 2027 will have a chance to bond as a cohort.
Exploring Our Foundations
“Art is not a mirror to reality, but a hammer with which to shape it.”
Question: How can creative expression help to reveal inner parts of ourselves in ways that words alone cannot explain?
Sunday, June 21
Get ready for a packed first day that gets you out of your comfort zone and immersed in the rhythms of South Africa, Stellenbosch, and Kayamandi. Start the day in comfortable clothing suited for outdoor activities. You will have time to change clothes later.
The day begins at 7:45am with breakfast, followed by morning workshops in Stellenbosch starting at 9:00am.
The afternoon takes us to nearby Kayamandi Township, where we will join our community partners at Songo.info. Led by Songo Programme Manager Sipho Madolo, Fellows will participate in a series of activity rotations showcasing Songo’s signature Education and Sports Programme. We will then gather for lunch at Amazink and enjoy an authentic South African dining experience.
We will spend the late afternoon at Koena Art Institute with Lukretia Booysen, a South African curator and creative entrepreneur committed to preserving and celebrating KhoiSan cultural heritage and identity through the arts.
Today’s Schedule 7:45am Breakfast 9:00am Morning Workshops 11:30am Songo.info Visit 1:30pm Amazink Lunch 3:30pm Indigenous Cultural Experience with the Koena Art Institute
7:00pm Ubuntu Night
We will close the evening with an Ubuntu Celebration at Seven Sisters Vineyard at 7:00 pm, bringing together Fellows, families, alumni, and friends of the Fellowship for an evening of connection and community. 8
Monday, June 22
Extending Our Comfort Zones
“Art is not a mirror to reality, but a hammer with which to shape it.”
Question: How do you make sense of your own and others' experiences through a lens of power, privilege, and difference? What questions arise for you as someone who wants to make lasting change?
Today invites us deeper into the stories, history, and communities that shape South Africa.
At 7:45 am, vans will depart for the Uyanda Foundation. Class of 2024 Alumnus Athi Ndwebi, founder of Uyanda, will lead us through a morning of learning about local initiatives that support young people, families, and community development.
We then travel to the Truth to Power Museum at the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation for a guided experience with Peter Storey, renowned South African Methodist minister, anti-apartheid leader, and former chaplain to Nelson Mandela. Together, we will reflect on the legacy of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the ongoing work of justice, leadership, reconciliation, and social change in South Africa.
Today’s Schedule
6:45am Bags outside!
7:00am Breakfast & Morning circle
Lunch will be at a Cape Malay restaurant, offering a taste of one of Cape Town’s rich cultural traditions.
In the afternoon, we head to Table Mountain, one of South Africa’s most iconic landmarks. Traveling by cable car to the summit, we will have time to reflect, explore, and take in panoramic views of Cape Town and the surrounding region.
We expect to return to our hotel in Cape Town around 6:30 pm, before heading to Mojo Market for dinner and an evening of good food, conversation, and fun together.
7:45am Depart for Uyanda
8:30am Uyanda Foundation
2:00pm Cape Malay Lunch
4:00pm Table Mountain & Reflection
6:30pm Cape Town Hotel Check-in
8:30pm Mojo Market Dinner
The Long Walk to Freedom
"The sun does not rush, yet it still crosses the sky."
Question: What is the cost of social change making? How can spaces of oppression be catalysts of personal and social change and transformation?
Today centers on reflection, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of freedom and community healing in South Africa. We begin the morning with breakfast and a morning circle before departing for the Robben Island ferry.
The morning will be spent visiting Robben Island, where we will learn more about South Africa’s history of apartheid and the legacy of leaders such as Nelson Mandela, who were imprisoned there. This experience offers an opportunity to reflect on justice, resistance, and reconciliation.
After returning to the mainland, we will travel to Hanover Park and enjoy a boxed lunch before spending the afternoon at Athwood Primary School with James Fernie. During our visit, we will learn about sustainability and innovative building materials made from recycled products, and join local youth for outdoor sports and activities.
Later in the day, we will take a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak and the Cape coastline, concluding at Signal Hill to take in sunset views over Cape Town.
The evening concludes at the V&A Waterfront, where there will be time to explore, shop, and enjoy dinner together.
Question: What places have shaped your sense of community? How do or could institutions better serve the places that they steward?
7:00am Breakfast & Morning Circle
8:00 am Conversation with Rise ‘76 Director Tiisetso Mashifane wa Noni
10:00am Parliament Visit
12:00pm Lunch at Parliament
4:00pm Flight to Johannesburg
6:00pm Arrive in Joburg and travel to hotel
8:00pm Dinner with KYP Community
Today focuses on memory, leadership, and transition as we close our time in Cape Town and journey onward to Johannesburg.
We begin the morning with breakfast and a community circle before joining a conversation with Rise ‘76 Director Tiisetso Mashifane wa Noni, exploring youth leadership, storytelling, and social impact in South Africa.
From there, we travel to the Western Cape Provincial Parliament for a visit and conversation focused on government, democracy, and public leadership in South Africa. Lunch will be served at Parliament.
Following lunch, we will head to the airport for a group reflection before our flight to Johannesburg.
Upon arrival in Johannesburg, we will travel by Gautrain to Rosebank and check into our hotel before gathering for community dinner with KYP facilitators.
Commit to Systemic Change
The child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.”
― African proverb
Question: How can we better recognize the leadership, resilience, innovation, and organizing within misrecognized communities?
Today brings us into the heart of Soweto and Kliptown for a day grounded in youth leadership, history, and community action. After breakfast at the hotel, we will gather for an 8:30am Morning Circle before departing for Soweto.
Our morning begins at the Hector Pieterson Memorial, where we will reflect on the legacy of the 1976 student uprising and the role young people played in the struggle against Apartheid. We will then continue with a tour of Soweto, including a visit to Mandela House, which offers deeper insight into the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela and the broader history of resistance and liberation in South Africa.
From Soweto, we will travel to Kliptown, where we will spend the afternoon with our partners at the Kliptown Youth Program (KYP). Following lunch together, we will engage in conversation with KYP founder Thulani Madondo, and community leaders. Fellows and KYP cofacilitators will then lead workshops on a variety of topics for KYP youth.
In the evening, we will attend Rise '76 at the Market Theatre, concluding the day through storytelling and performance rooted in South Africa’s history and contemporary social realities.
Thursday, June 25
Today’s Schedule 7:45am Breakfast 8:30am Morning Circle 9:00am Soweto Tour followed by Hector Pieterson Memorial 12:00pm
Afternoon at KYP: lunch, workshops, gumboot dancing, tour 4:30pm Reflection 5:30pm Dinner 7:00pm Rise ‘76 Performance at Market Theater
Friday, June 26
Keep Growing
"Knowledge is a garden. If it isn’t cultivated, you can’t harvest it.”
― African Proverb
Question: How do we practice Ubuntu while still confronting injustice and demanding systemic change? What does healing look like?
Today’s Schedule
8:00am Breakfast
8:30am Morning Circle
9:00am Apartheid Museum
11:15am Reflection
12:00pm Maharishi Institute
1:00pm Alex SafeHub Community service
5:00pm Prepare for Ubuntu Night
7:00pm Ubuntu Night
Today is a day of deep reflection, lived history, and community connection as we continue to engage with South Africa’s past and present.
We will spend the morning in the Apartheid Museum, engaging with powerful exhibits that trace the history of Apartheid, resistance, and the long struggle for freedom in South Africa. After our visit, we will pause for reflection outside of the museum and share lunch together, creating space to process and discuss the morning’s experience.
We will then visit the Maharishi Invincibility Institute, where we will learn about its innovative approach to education, personal development, and economic empowerment for young people.
In the afternoon, we will travel to Alexandra to spend time with our partners at Safe-Hub, where we will connect with community members and participate in a community clean-up initiative. Working alongside local partners, this experience offers an opportunity to learn through service, presence, and relationship-building.
We will then return to the hotel to freshen up before Ubuntu Night, where we will gather with Fellows, alumni, families, and friends of the Fellowship for an evening rooted in connection, shared experience, and the spirit of ubuntu—“I am because we are.”
Expanding Perspective
"The wisdom of the elephant is known by all the trees it has touched.”
Question: As we near the end of this Immersion, what responsibilities come from having witnessed and learned within communities? What commitments are you taking away for the next steps of your journey?
Today marks our transition into a time of rest, reflection, and celebration in the natural beauty of Kingdom Resort. We will begin the day with travel to the resort, followed by check-in and time to settle into our accommodations.
We will gather for lunch before moving into a closing workshop, creating space to reflect on the journey, the relationships built, and the learning that has unfolded throughout the Immersion.
The afternoon will be dedicated to relaxation and shared enjoyment, with opportunities to swim, explore the resort, participate in activities such as quad biking, or simply enjoy time together.
In the evening, we will come together for a closing community dinner, followed by a campfire celebration and reflection. Together, we will close the day—and our time together—in a spirit of community, gratitude, and shared storytelling.
Saturday, June 27
Today’s Schedule
8:00am Breakfast & Morning Circle 9:00am Drive to Kingdom Resort 11:30am Lunch and Check-In 1:30pm Closing Workshop 4:00pm Downtime & Fun Activities 6:30pm Dinner 8:00pm Campfire
Sunday, June 28
Today’s Schedule
5:00am Load Transport
5:45am Breakfast
7:00am Safari
10:30am Travel back to Johannesburg
1:30pm Lunch & Last Reflections
2:30pm Rosebank Arts & Crafts Market
4:00pm Dinner and Check in at JNB Airport
Embracing Community
"They
say we are the sum of all who have ever loved us.”
Question: How can I hold space and extend caring for someone today? Then, action it.
Today is the last day of the Immersion, inspired by the theme of deep gratitude and generosity
We will circle up bright and early at 6:15am to load all of our belongings into our transport. Prioritize dressing for comfort today, as you will be traveling for long periods.
At 7:00am, we will depart for a safari drive through Pilanesberg National Park, where we will have the opportunity to see Africa’s renowned “Big Five”— lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, and buffalo in their natural habitat.
Following the safari, we will pick up our boxed lunches and begin the approximately 2 5-hour journey back to Johannesburg in preparation for our flights home
During the drive, we will share a final reflection on our time together. There will also be an opportunity to shop for souvenirs at the Rosebank Art & Craft Market before heading to the airport.
We will then make our way home, carrying with us the relationships, lessons, and memories from an extraordinary journey together.
The Class of 2024
Sunday, June 21
How can creative expression help to reveal inner parts of ourselves in ways that words alone cannot explain?
The Class of 2024
Tuesday, June 23
What is the cost of social change making? How can spaces of oppression be catalysts of personal and social change and transformation?
The Class of 2024
Thursday, June 25
How can we better recognize the leadership, resilience, innovation, and organizing within misrecognized communities?
The Class of 2024
Saturday, June 27
As we near the end of our Immersion, what responsibilities come from having witnessed and learned within communities? What commitments are you taking away for the next steps of your journey?
great care in voicing our opinions, especially negative feedback, about or for others. It’s important to provide support through our words and actions, especially during interactions with people with whom we are building relationships and trust.
At City Year, one facilitation guideline we often used was No One Speaks Twice Until Everyone Speaks Once (NOSTUESO). While we may not employ that ground rule in every meeting, it’s good to think about how much you are talking, and when to listen more.
Greg often encouraged people to take risks to learn and do more. As part of that, they may need to ask questions and seek out information. Also, be willing to be introspective and reflective, checking your own biases.
At the same time, effective leaders know when to follow and how to step back so that everyone has a chance to lead and shine.
Throughout our trip and Fellowship, we’ll all encounter new things, learn, and grow. At times, we may find it helpful to name the teachable moments, especially those that challenge us to shift our own values and perspectives.
Greg often modeled how to seek out the best in oneself and others. Rather than make assumptions, he took time to go deeper and get to know where the person was coming from. Through treating all others with kindness and respect, and giving people the benefit of the doubt, we can find common ground and truly love each other’s uniqueness and identities. None of us represents a whole group, so speaking for yourself is important.
Tiisetso
Mashifane wa Noni
Tiisetso Mashifane wa Noni is a South African playwright, theatre director and producer who has been described as a “theatre prodigy” in the Cape Times for her debut play, Sainthood and as a writer-director who has “her ear to the ground, her heart in the right place, and a mind worth tapping into’ in the Daily Maverick for her sophomore play, Delela Her latest play, Neighbourhood has been described as ‘a scathing indictment on the rupture of the South African dream’ by The Cape Robyn. With an interest in writing provocative play texts focused on social politics, history, and violence in contemporary South Africa, Mashifane wa Noni is the recipient of multiple awards including back-to-back Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards wins for Best New South African Script, for Delela and Neighbourhood, in 2024 and 2025, the 2021 Canadian-South African (CASA) playwriting award for her gender based violence focused play, lamb v. slaughterhouse and was named the 2023 Baxter Theatre CEO’s Artist of the Year for her body of work
g y , g Phuthaditjaba, a Community Centre on the site of the original Twala family home which was bombed by security police during apartheid
van Buuren (City Year South Africa)
Daylene van Buuren is a community and international organisation leader who is currently the Executive Director of City Year South Africa, one of the longest youth-serving service programs in the country. She is the first graduate of City Year South Africa to lead in an Executive Role and the youngest female leader to hold this position She was selected as an Obama Africa Leader in 2019 for the contribution to the youth development sector through youth service. With years of experience in youth development, capacity building and strategy leadership, she is a respected and sought-after voice and leader in the non-profit organisation network
Nelisiwe Walaza currently serves as a Marketing and Communications Manager and is one of the Executive members of Kliptown Youth Program. She studied Marketing in Business Administration at PC Training and Business College and studied Project Management at Wits University She is also a proud alumni of KYP and loves that today she gets to serve and transform other children’s lives as hers was transformed. She is also part of KYP's outreach partnership programs, and she is one of the mentors for a girls scholarship program in KZN Her passion lies in youth leadership and empowerment programs.
Daylene
Nelisiwe Walaza (KYP)
through awards such as the Standard Bank Top Women Regional Conference pitching competition and continues to advance her leadership through global mentorship programmes
Dion Kandima (Ripples Coach)
Aneesha Vahle (Ripples Coach)
Dion Kandima is an inspired leader and social entrepreneur passionate about empowering individuals and fostering positive change Dion's commitment to training and development initiatives is evident in his roles as Founder of Hukama Foundation and Training & Curriculum Coordinator at the Institute for Transformational Leadership (ITL) With a track record of training over 10,000 participants since 2006 through Hukama, Dion has shown his ability to make a tangible impact on individuals and communities. Dion currently serves as a Ripples of Hope Coach, paired with Athi Ndwebi
Aneesha Vahle leads the Coaching Program for the Ripples of Hope Fellowship, supporting fellows through coaching, mentoring, and leadership development. With more than 20 years of experience across corporate, government, NGO, and international development sectors, she is passionate about helping leaders grow in purpose, resilience, and impact. Aneesha holds qualifications in Business Administration, Intercultural Management, Social & Labour Law, and Professional Coaching, and previously served as HR Director at City Year South Africa.
traces its origins to the eighteenth century and remains an important symbol of South Africa's cultural and religious heritage
Chapman's Peak
City of Cape Town
Chapman's Peak is a mountain on the western side of the Cape Peninsula, between Hout Bay and Noordhoek in Cape Town, South Africa. The western flank of the mountain falls sharply for hundreds of metres into the Atlantic Ocean, and a road, known as Chapman's Peak Drive hugs the near-vertical face of the mountain, linking Hout Bay to Noordhoek Tourists and locals often stop at viewpoints along this road which offer views of Hout Bay, The Sentinel Peak and surrounds, as well as over Noordhoek Beach
Cape Town is a port city on South Africa’s southwest coast, on a peninsula beneath the imposing Table Mountain Slowly rotating cable cars climb to the mountain’s flat top, from which there are sweeping views of the city, the busy harbor and boats heading for Robben Island, the notorious prison that once held Nelson Mandela, which is now a living museum
Hannover Park
Hector Pieterson Museum
during apartheid as part of the government's forced removals and racial segregation policies. Today, it is home to a strong and resilient community that continues to address social and economic challenges while fostering local leadership and community development.
The Hector Pieterson Museum is a museum located in Orlando West, Soweto, South Africa. Located two blocks away from where student protester Hector Pieterson was shot and killed on 16 June 1976, the museum is named in his honour and covers the events of the anti-Apartheid Soweto Uprising, where more than 170 protesting school children were killed.
House of Basadi is a social enterprise which aims to make a valuable contribution in disadvantaged communities. Through providing handicraft and sewing training to unemployed, economically inactive women and young girls they hope to make them resourceful, skilled, and production orientated. They do this to develop their potential, talents and encourage entrepreneurship which in turn creates self-employment, selfreliance as well as opportunities to join House of Basadi’s workforce.
House of Basadi
Programme engagement with issues such as inequality, poverty, and social cohesion.
Maharishi Invincibility Institute
Northwest Province
Maharishi Invincibility Institute is an accredited non-profit educational institution established in 2007. It provides holistic, skills-based education aimed at improving employability and access to careers. The institute has supported thousands of South Africans into fields such as finance, technology, management, and consulting.
Market Theatre is a cultural institution in Johannesburg’s Newtown precinct, established in 1976. It became known as the “Theatre of the Struggle” for its role in challenging apartheid through performance and storytelling. Today it continues to support theatre, arts education, and cultural expression.
North West Province is located in the northern part of South Africa and shares a border with Botswana. The province is known for its mining industry, agricultural production, and natural attractions, including the Pilanesberg region and the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site.
Market Theatre
Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch University
Mountain
The town is internationally recognized for its universities, vineyards, and historic Cape Dutch architecture, and serves as a major center for education, agriculture, and research
Stellenbosch University is a public research university located in Stellenbosch It was established in 1918 and is the oldest university in South Africa. The institution has played a significant role in the country’s academic, political, and historical development
Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain overlooking Cape Town. It forms part of Table Mountain National Park and is one of South Africa’s most visited natural landmarks It is widely recognised as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.
Truth to Power Exhibition
The Truth to Power Exhibition is a cultural and educational space focused on justice, accountability, and human rights It uses art, history, and storytelling to highlight voices that challenge inequality and oppression. The exhibition encourages reflection and dialogue on both historical and contemporary social issues
UChicago MPP Graduate and Equitable Education Advocate
Khosikhadi Mmatlala wa Mudau
Ephemia Monama South Africa
The Class of 2027
Amaya Cage USA Student, Rhodes College
Junior Dlamini South Africa Assistant Program Manager, Partnership Program (KH & Motheo)
James Carroll USA Student, Bridgewater State University
Mazzi Ingram USA Founder, Climate Action Careers
Anna Cho USA Student, University of Chicago
Thabang Makgakwe
South Africa
Filmmaker, Cultural Activist, Youth Advocate, Innovator, and Climate Champion
Anouk Cronjé South AfricaGraduate Student, Stellenbosch University
Mathabatha Malete
South Africa
IT and Finance Student, University of Cape Town
The Class of 2027
Boitumelo Minah Susan MoengSouth Africa
Student, Knorr-Bremse
Aurora Krot MosesSouth Africa
Managing Director & Facilitator, AKM Inspirations Pty Ltd University
USA
Master's Student in Human Rights Advocacy, NOVA School of Law, Lisbon, Portugal
Ofentse Phoofolo South Africa
Student, Rosebank College
Brandall Swartz South Africa
Founder, The UniDreams Foundation
Tavera
Teacher Fellow, City Year Greater Boston USA
Tucker
Youth and Community Strategist USA
Josie
Aranxa Parra
Marie
As individuals whose lifelong work was shaped by the legacy of international educator and leader Gregory Ricks, we are champions of service and social change. We are so honored to work together to build and sustain this Fellowship, in partnership with so many others around the world.
QuintonApollis Co-ProgramLead
DanielleWest OperationsLead
AneeshaVahle CoachingLead
NeoSello FellowshipCoordinator
ArthurTarteeJr. AlumniLead
ArianeHoy Co-ProgramLead
KristenAtwood Founder&BoardChair
JennieEplettReilly ViceBoardChair
Notes & Reflections
Notes & Reflections
Notes & Reflections
With Gratitude and Hope
This Fellowship is a testament to the idea that none of us thrives alone. The individuals, families, and organizations recognized below have invested in the growth, learning, and leadership of our Fellows through their generosity, encouragement, and belief in the power of community. Their support reflects the spirit of ubuntu—“I am because we are”—and helps make possible the experiences, relationships, and opportunities that shape this journey. We are honored to recognize their partnership and profoundly grateful for their commitment to the next generation of leaders
Kristen and Jim Atwood
Sue and Spencer Blasdale
Holly and Rich Bonomo
Charlotte Mao and Michael Brown
Molly and Rob Cramer
Creative Visions
Barbara and John Emery
DeDe Eplett Keller
Saskia and Paul Epstein
Kate and Tom Gilbane
Vanessa and Jeffrey Gilbreth
Nicole Felton and Paul Ginsberg
Alison and David Graham
Robert Green
Marni Grossman
Mo Shafroth and Barr Hogen
Kip Hollister Hyde and Warren Hyde
Kate Lilienthal and Mark Inkster
Kevin James
Rosabeth Moss Kanter
Vanessa Kirsch and Alan Khazei
The Lovett-Woodsum Foundation
Kim Syman and JB Lyon
Kristina and Patrick Lyons
Lynda and Kevin Macdonald
Maryfrances Metrick
Valerie Mosley
Brooke and Will Muggia
Donna Quirk
Jennifer Eplett Reilly and Sean Reilly
Gabriela and Bob Romanow
Catherine and Will Rose
Nancy Routh
Maureen Coffey and Eric Schwarz
Lynne and Gary Smith
Elaine and David Sobell
Jennifer Thyng
Erika Alvarez Werner and John Werne
Rosabeth Moss Kanter
Vanessa Kirsch and Alan Khazei
The Lovett-Woodsum Foundation
Kim Syman and JB Lyon
Kristina and Patrick Lyons
Lynda and Kevin Macdonald
Maryfrances Metrick
Valerie Mosley
Brooke and Will Muggia
Donna Quirk
Jennifer Eplett Reilly and Sean Reilly
Gabriela and Bob Romanow
Catherine and Will Rose
Nancy Routh
Maureen Coffey and Eric Schwarz
Lynne and Gary Smith
Elaine and David Sobell
Jennifer Thyng
Erika Alvarez Werner and John Werner
A Special Thank You to
Our Board of Trustees
Our Board members are more than advisors—they are champions of the Fellowship and active partners in this work. Through their leadership, generosity, mentorship, and unwavering belief in the potential of emerging leaders, they help make experiences like this Immersion possible. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for their service and for the example they set as leaders committed to building a more just, compassionate, and connected world.
Kristen Atwood. Founder & Board Chair
Jennie Eplett Reilly, Vice-Chair
Holly Bonomo
Vanessa Kirsch
Kyle Umemba
Our Coaches
With heartfelt gratitude, we recognize the incredible individuals who have served as Ripples of Hope Fellowship Coaches. Your wisdom, generosity, and belief in the potential of young leaders have helped shape a transformative journey for our Fellows. Thank you for walking alongside them with purpose, compassion, and unwavering support.
Holly Bonomo, United States
Lukretia Booysen, South Africa
Gillion Bosman, South Africa
Mark Beare, South Africa
Jonathan Franklin, United States
Samanta Ha DiMuzio, United States
Alison Graham, United States
Lynette Johnson, South Africa
Dion Kadima, South Africa
Abby Kiesa, United States
Kevin Macdonald, United States
Amari Simpson, United States
Aneesha Vahle, South Africa
Derrick Young Jr., United States
Note: This publication is not for sale or redistribution. It is only intended for use by the individuals involved in the Ripples of Hope Fellowship. All images therein are freely available via the Internet or via Canva.
