The official launch of the NFG Step Forward Foundation in 2026 marks a new chapter for a series of social initiatives that have been associated with NFG Group for nearly a decade.
Long before the foundation existed as a standalone organization, NFG-backed programs were already supporting educational projects, students facing financial difficulties, and communities experiencing periods of hardship. According to the organization, these activities have been underway since at least 2017, with educational initiatives in Namibia among the programs supported during that period.
As the scope of these efforts expanded over time, the creation of a dedicated foundation became a natural next step. Rather than introducing a new philanthropic agenda, the organization has chosen to formalize existing activities within a structure designed to provide long-term oversight, administration, and strategic direction.
The foundation’s priorities remain closely aligned with the initiatives that preceded it. Education continues to occupy a central position, alongside nutritional support and targeted community assistance programs. The emphasis is on maintaining consistent engagement in areas where practical support can contribute to educational access and community well-being.
Recent projects illustrate how that approach continues to be implemented on the ground. In Kenya, NFG SA partnered with the Lenivan Foundation to support an initiative that distributed more than 300 pairs of school shoes to children while contributing to wider educational and community programs. The project reflected the foundation’s broader focus on supporting local initiatives capable of addressing everyday challenges faced by students and families.
To support future growth, the NFG Step Forward Foundation has established an independent governance framework. The organization will operate under the supervision of an independent Board of Trustees. Dr. Kathryn Devos and Cecilia Rague-Kaisha will serve as Ambassadors, while Shaunte Stapleton has been appointed Corporate Manager and Troylin Evelyn will serve as Secretary. Additional trustees are expected to join as activities continue to expand.
Looking ahead, NFG has stated that the foundation will continue developing through donations, strategic collaborations, and referrals from community organizations and external partners. These partnerships are expected to play a central role in identifying local needs and supporting initiatives across different regions.
While the foundation itself is new, the work it represents is not. Its launch formalizes years of educational and community-focused activity, creating a dedicated institution intended to support and expand those efforts in the years ahead.