About – Our Story
The Beacon Equity Trust is an educational charity, founded in 2009, whose principal activity is to support the operation of The Beacon Scholarship. It is privately funded and presently operates in the UK and East Africa.
Our Vision: On the programme, Beacon Scholars learn how to make a real difference and take people with them. The aim is that, by eventually attaining a significant leadership position in an international or home country organisation, they can continue as changemakers and have a multiplier effect – to positively influence the lives of many others through their actions, and give back.
Shaping bright futures
We are working toward a world where every young person, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to realise their full potential and become a force for positive change. A world where leadership is not just about power and privilege, but about service, empathy, and a deep commitment to making a difference. We want a world where thoughtful, ethical leadership is the norm, and African people from ordinary backgrounds can lead and inform the policy which affects them and their communities..
Beacon Changemakers is rooted in a belief that education and leadership development are the most powerful tools for social and economic transformation. We believe that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, deserves access to quality education and the opportunity to develop their talents and skills. We also believe in the importance of leadership development, and the power of young people to shape the future.
With Beacon Changemakers, we envision a future where:
- Ethical leadership is the norm
Our scholars will become role models for ethical leadership, inspiring others to follow their example. - Diversity and inclusion are celebrated
Beacon Changemakers will contribute to a more diverse and inclusive world by empowering young people from all backgrounds. - Social and economic justice is a reality
Our scholars will be at the forefront of efforts to address social and economic inequalities. - Innovation and creativity are driving positive change
Beacon Changemakers will nurture a new generation of innovators who are committed to solving the world’s most pressing challenges. Our work inspires hope and optimism for brighter futures..
By investing in the next generation of leaders, Beacon Changemakers is working to create a world that is more just, equitable, and sustainable.
Historical timeline
2009
BET charity founded; 5 partner schools signed (primary and secondary); initial two scholarships awarded.
2010
Consultant (local educator) joins as local representative and introduces standardised assessment tools; improved application procedures and new financial disclosure tool built; three new scholarship awards, now a total of five scholars.
2011
Eight scholars + 2 scholars sponsored in state schools; website built.
2012
Ten scholars; exploratory discussions begin for tertiary component.
2013
Eleven scholars; first Beacon Scholar, Natasha Khanyola (2009), gains admission to University of Manchester to study Engineering; Beacon Scholarship for University launched with LSE and Cambridge signed as University Partners.
2014
Fourteen scholars; 4 additional Beacon Partner Schools signed in Kenya; first Beacon Scholar for University at Trinity College, Cambridge. New UK Co-ordinator and Kenya Beacon Rep.
2015
Seventeen scholars; two additional local education system (8-4-4) secondary schools signed; first Beacon Scholar at LSE.
2016
Nineteen scholars; second Scholar at Cambridge; two Beacon Scholars in Prep Partner Schools in Kenya obtain 100% scholarships to private schools in UK.
2017
Twenty-six scholars: 8 university, 20 school, including one into each of 4 new Beacon Partner Schools signed in Tanzania. Cardiff, Surrey, Bristol signed as University Partners. Exited Prep School Partnerships.
2018
Thirty-one scholars: 11 university of which 2 from Uganda, 20 School. Imperial College London signed as a University Partner. Two new Partner Schools signed in Uganda. Exited Kenyan local education system (8-4-4) secondary school Partnerships. Programme re-focused on International Secondary Schools, and undergraduates in UK Partner Universities only. UK Beacon Rep recruited.
2019
Thirty-five scholars: 16 university, 19 school. First university graduates secured good jobs at McKinsey and Old Mutual. Two new Beacon Partner Schools signed in Zambia.
2020
Thirty-six scholars: 17 university, 19 school. Two further university graduates, and 3 school scholars secure near full scholarships to Yale, UBC, and University of Toronto. One schools scholar secures 100% scholarship from Trinity College, Cambridge. No new additions to 13 Partner Schools.
2021
Thirty-four scholars: 17 university, 17 school. Six university graduates, with employment offers from top multinational firms. University of Birmingham signed. New Ugandan Partner School (RISU) signed.
2022
Thirty-five scholars: 17 university scholars, 20 school. Seven university graduates. New University Alumni structure set up.
2023
Thirty-six scholars: 17 university scholars, 19 school. Four university graduates. Developed standalone leadership curriculum of asynchronous learning. Started exploring new fees structure with partner universities.
2024
Thirty-four scholars: 15 university Scholars, 19 school. University of Exeter signed. Standalone leadership development business ARLLS set up, all profits to fund Beacon Changemakers. Celebrate 15 year anniversary: We have reached 94 scholars in total, and we and partners have funded 282 academic years of education.