From learner to leader: Jade Erasmus helps open doors through Ruta Sechaba

06 June 2025

 

Jade Erasmus, a 2022 matriculant from Meridian Pinehurst, has come full circle. Once a scholarship recipient, he now works as an administrative intern for the Ruta Sechaba Foundation, where he helps other young people access the same opportunities that shaped his own future.

 

A Curro alumnus building the future

Jade’s academic journey began with the support of the very foundation he now serves. As part of the administrative team at Curro, he helps identify and support high-performing learners from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they receive scholarships to attend Curro or partner schools.

‘What I love most about my job is that I get to help award scholarships to learners who need financial assistance,’ said Jade. ‘Just being able to assist another family that wants the best for their child means the world to me – because I know exactly how that feels.’

His daily tasks might take place behind the scenes, but Jade’s work is rooted in lived experience. For him, it’s personal.

 

 

Seeing the impact first-hand

Jade recently joined the Ruta Sechaba and Curro Social Responsibility team on school visits to meet learners supported by the foundation. The experience, he says, was deeply moving.

‘Witnessing the smiles on the learners’ faces and experiencing their genuine gratitude was truly heartwarming. Their sense of inspiration and motivation, not only from their own success but also from the achievements of their fellow recipients, was profoundly impactful.’

The learners' stories reminded him why this work matters. ‘It was truly a humbling experience to hear the students share their personal stories and backgrounds, and to witness the deep sense of gratitude they feel for receiving a scholarship from Ruta Sechaba,’ he said.

Jade noted how these scholarships do more than fund education – they unlock real, lasting change. ‘Through it, they now have access to a world of new opportunities and experiences that will shape their futures.’

 

A message for others

Jade encourages staff across the Curro network to recognise the power of support, even in small actions. ‘When you have the opportunity to assist someone, especially a learner, I encourage you to lend a helping hand. Kindness extends far beyond surface-level gestures. People will always remember those who offered support when they needed it most.’

To the Matric Class of 2025, he offers simple advice: ‘Be present in the moment. I know that’s a cliché, especially with all the assignments and stress of your final year, but this time goes by so fast. Soon, you’ll be writing your final exams and saying goodbye to the peers and teachers who helped shape your life. Don’t miss the moments that matter.’

 

 

About the Ruta Sechaba Foundation

The Ruta Sechaba Foundation provides scholarships to academically strong learners from under-resourced communities, giving them access to education at Curro and partner schools. It supports hundreds of learners across South Africa each year.

Jade Erasmus is living proof of what can happen when learners are given a chance – and when they return to uplift others. His journey continues, and so does the work of the foundation that helped make it possible.