About us
We search for young people with promise in the places where promise is hardest to convert into a future, and we stay with them.
Why we exist
Founded by renewable energy pioneer Demetri Pappadopoulos, the Gen-E Foundation was created from a belief that Africa's most positive outcomes will only be achieved through a genuine commitment to community empowerment and inclusion.
In the regions where we develop renewable energy projects, we drive opportunities to uplift young people and strengthen our neighbouring communities.
The Gen-E Foundation is a registered non-profit organisation, established to unlock the potential of talented, under-resourced young people in rural South Africa, particularly in communities adjacent to renewable energy infrastructure. We do this by designing and operating high-impact educational, athletic, skills development and nutrition-focused programmes.
To discover and develop generations of promising young adults, living in the shadow of our renewable energy projects; to invest in their potential through professional sport, education and skills development to achieve their most positive outcome.
Our values
Embracing individuality and diversity.
Staying true to community roots.
Turning obstacles into opportunities.
Tackling challenges with energy and passion.
Pursuing the highest standards.
Focusing on creating the best outcomes.
How we are funded
The Gen-E Foundation is the principal socio-economic development vehicle of Dimsum Energy, a privately owned South African utility-scale renewable energy developer and generator.
From the portfolio of Wind Relic projects, a defined portion of revenues is allocated to both the Gen-E Foundation and the Harrier Institute.
That matters more than it sounds. It ties our funding to generating assets rather than to the goodwill of a given year, which is what allows us to make commitments to a child that last the length of their schooling.
