The annual Allan Gray year-end function celebrates the achievements of the Allan Gray Fellows during the preceding academic year. At the end of 2009, an additional 16 individuals graduated as Allan Gray Fellows which means they have successfully completed their degrees as well as the Entrepreneurial Development Programme. They will join the existing Allan Gray Alumni to bring the Alumni numbers to 24. While each Fellow has made his/her own contribution, the Allan Gray Fellow who gave the year-end speech in Gauteng expressed much of the Foundation’s aspirations.

“Our country needs leaders with character, innovation and more than anything a vision to see our fellow South Africans thrive. As Allan Gray Fellows, we have been given responsibility to be drivers of this change. As young and bright as every Fellow here is, the first step to our success is embracing this responsibility. I have been inspired by each one of you, your commitment to your dreams and ambitions, your constant hard work and the way you each see the world. More than anything I’ve learnt that to inspire others; you must become the change you wish to see in them. The Foundation has provided a more than filling glimpse of what hard work and commitment can achieve – we have seen the power that innovative minds wield.”

Class of 2009, we salute you and look forward to celebrating at your graduation on 20 March 2010.  

Find out more about the fellowship and scholarship programmes offered by the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation.