About – Our Story
The Beacon Equity Trust is an educational charity, founded in 2009, whose principal activity is to support the operation of Beacon Changemakers. 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. - Leadership, enterprise and creativity are driving positive change
Beacon Changemakers will nurture a new generation of transnational leaders 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
2009/10
BET charity founded: 5 partner schools signed (primary and secondary); initial two scholarships awarded.
2010/11
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.
2011/12
8 scholars + 2 scholars sponsored in state schools; website built.
2012/13
10 scholars: exploratory discussions begin for tertiary component.
2013/14
11 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.
2014/15
14 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.
2015/16
17 scholars: two additional local education system (8-4-4) secondary schools signed; first Beacon Scholar at LSE.
2016/17
19 scholars: second scholar at Cambridge; two Beacon Scholars in Prep Partner Schools in Kenya obtain 100% scholarships to private schools in UK.
2017/18
28 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.
2018/19
31 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.
2019/20
35 scholars: 16 university, 19 school. First university graduates secured good jobs at McKinsey and Old Mutual. Two new Beacon Partner Schools signed in Zambia.
2020/21
36 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.
2021/22
34 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.
2022/23
37 scholars: 17 university scholars, 20 school. Seven university graduates. New University Alumni structure set up.
2023/24
36 scholars: 17 university scholars, 19 school. Four university graduates. University of Exeter signed. Transition Tuition fee Waiver for new University Partners.
2024/25
40 scholars: 18 university scholars, 22 school. 14 Partner Schools – added Braeburn Arusha; UWCEA leaves the programme. Started signing School Partners in South Africa. ARLLS spins out of Beacon as a commercial start-up.