Unity in Africa Foundation

Youth Day reminds us of the power, courage and potential of young South Africans.

At iGEMS, we are committed to opening pathways for youth to dream bigger, learn boldly and step into futures filled with opportunity in engineering, technology and innovation.

Here’s to the next generation of problem-solvers, leaders and changemakers.

June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month.

At iGEMS, we believe that strength is not about carrying everything alone — it’s about knowing when to speak up, reach out, and accept support.

Men need to know that it’s okay to not be okay. It’s okay to feel vulnerable, to ask for help, to go to therapy, and to take the time needed to heal. Mental health matters, and no one should have to face their struggles in silence.

This month, we encourage open conversations, compassion, and support for the men and young men in our communities. Let’s break the stigma, listen without judgement, and build stronger minds together.

Speak out. Reach out. You matter.

Discover how we are making a difference: uina.co.za

South Africa needs more than qualified graduates — it needs young people who are work-ready, confident and equipped to contribute meaningfully to the economy.

Through academic support, mentorship, workplace exposure, internships and industry partnerships, iGEMS is helping to bridge the gap between education and employment for future engineering professionals.

Our latest news article looks at how iGEMS is responding to the national call for work-ready engineering graduates, and why education-to-employment pathways are so important for South Africa’s skills pipeline.

IGEMS ANSWERS NATIONAL CALL FOR WORK-READY ENGINEERING GRADUATES - iGEMS - Incubating Great Engineering Minds As South Africa’s higher education sector faces growing pressure to produce graduates who are not only qualified, but employable, Unity in Africa’s iGEMS programme is demonstrating the kind of education-to-employment model the country urgently needs. The recently released BDO South Africa Higher...

Behind every successful programme is a village of people who believe in its purpose.

On International Human Resources Day, iGEMS had the privilege of hosting an HR Appreciation Event for our member companies and partners who continue to support our programme and the young engineering minds we are working to incubate.

The event was an opportunity to honour those who have travelled this path with us and to express our sincere appreciation for the support, guidance and commitment that make the iGEMS journey possible.

Guests were also treated to an insightful presentation by Colleen Ivings and Donna McFarlane of Ivings McFarlane Attorneys on the recent changes and amendments to the employment bill, with five Acts having changed, offering valuable information for HR professionals and business leaders.

Kathy Balshaw shared a meaningful message about the importance of “the village” and reminded us that wellbeing matters. In a place of flourishing, we are called to focus on what is strong rather than what is wrong, and to nurture the five pillars of wellbeing: positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning and accomplishment.

Her message was a powerful reminder that when we add value to people’s lives, we create environments where both individuals and organisations can thrive.

Berenice Rose closed the event by highlighting that collaboration is key. It truly takes a village to incubate great engineering minds, and we are deeply grateful to this village for walking alongside iGEMS.

We look forward to making this an annual event as we continue to celebrate, connect and collaborate with the partners who help make our programme possible.

We recently said a heartfelt goodbye to one of our Phase 1 iGEMS learners, Grace Mapulisa.

Grace recently visited us to share that she and her brother will be moving to Canada to live with their dad. After losing her mom a few years ago, this marks the beginning of a significant new chapter for Grace and her family.

A learner from Alexander Road High School, Grace has always stood out as a bright, determined, and capable young woman with so much promise. While we are truly going to miss her, we are equally excited for all that lies ahead.

Grace, your iGEMS family is incredibly proud of you. We know you have a bright future ahead, and we cannot wait to see all that you achieve.

Wishing you courage, joy, and success as you begin this new adventure. You will always be part of the iGEMS story. 💙