About Us
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation oversees the Award Programme in over 130 countries and territories globally, with 18 countries in Africa. The Programme currently has over 1 million active participants globally with about three hundred thousand of the total participants based on the African Continent.
The Award is a leading structured (non-formal education) youth development programme, empowering youth aged 14-24 to explore their full potential and find their purpose, passion and place in the world, regardless of their location or circumstance. The Award is a fully inclusive programme and has no social, political, or religious affiliations.
Our Vision
To reach more young people from diverse backgrounds and equip them as individuals to succeed in life.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower young people between the ages of 14 to 24, through a balanced non-competitive framework for self development, enabling them to become responsible, active citizens within their communities.
Our Ambition
Every eligible young person in South Africa will have the opportunity to participate in the Award.
The History of the Award
Founding of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award was founded in 1956 by HRH Prince Philip, Kurt Hahn, a German educationalist, and Lord Hunt, leader of the first successful ascent of Everest. The idea was born in response to their concerns about the development of boys post World War II, due to the gap between leaving school at 15 and entering National Service at 18.
Evolution of the Award
Although initially only available to boys aged between 14 and 18, there was great demand for a similar scheme for girls, and this was launched in September 1958.
Development of Skills Sections
In 1980, the upper age limit was extended to 25 and the Award took on its current four-Section format of: Service, Adventurous Journey, Skills and Physical Recreation.
Founding of The Gold Shield Award in South Africa
In 1983 the Award was introduced in South Africa under the banner of the Gold Shield Award, with Dr Ian Player as the first Chairman.
Rebrand to The President’s Award for Youth Empowerment
In 1994 it was re-launched as The President’s Award for Youth Empowerment, with Mr Nelson Mandela as the Founding Patron-in-Chief.
The Award Staff Members
Contact Us
Our Office
Fourways Office Park,
Block 5,
Ground Floor,
40 Roos Street,
Fourways,
2191
Block 5,
Ground Floor,
40 Roos Street,
Fourways,
2191
Board of Trustees
Chairman's Message
World-class organizations are defined by certain core characteristics: expertise, innovation and passion for serving.
I am humbled by and honoured to work alongside a group of dedicated Trustees, an exceptional and innovative leadership and operations team and a passionate volunteer network of teachers, parents and community leaders who have joined forces with us to serve our young people in South Africa.
