The Dr. Bettye Bouey Yates
Educational Foundation
Our foundation strives to transform lives through the power of education in South Africa. Your support helps create lasting opportunities for children in underserved communities.
WE WERE BUILT TO TRANSFORM LIVES
Established in 1998, the Dr. Bettye Bouey-Yates Educational Foundation was created to support two primary schools near Durban, South Africa. Since its inception, the foundation has donated over $200,000 for books and educational supplies and has funded projects to build libraries, science labs, computer centers, and improve infrastructure.
The foundation honors the legacy of Bettye Bouey-Yates, an American educator who, after working with Black and Colored teachers during apartheid, continued to support educational advancements following Nelson Mandela’s 1994 election.
The foundation’s efforts have significantly enhanced the quality of education, providing a safe and supportive learning environment for tens of thousands of students.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Dr. Bettye Bouey-Yates Educational Foundation is to enhance the educational experience of underserved children in South Africa through advocacy, and the investment of resources that empower every student to achieve both academic and personal success.
OUR VISION STATEMENT
Our vision is to empower every student in our schools to graduate equipped with essential skills for success in postsecondary education, their careers, and life.
ALL CHILDREN DESERVE TO HAVE ACCESS TO A QUALITY EDUCATION.
CHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE
For example, through the generosity of our donors and the dedication of local educators, we’ve seen the educational landscape in Clermont transform. Children who once faced limited opportunities are now thriving, armed with knowledge and skills to shape their own futures.
Our Foundation’s History
The Dr. Bettye Bouey-Yates Educational Foundation (BBYEF) is a Washington, D.C.-based 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the educational opportunities of children in South Africa.
The Foundation collaborates closely with local schools, teachers, and administrators to identify and address challenges, providing the resources necessary to improve learning environments and outcomes.
BBYEF supports a wide range of initiatives, from supplying educational materials and technology to funding classroom renovations and playground installations. These efforts are tailored to meet specific needs, such as science and math kits, dictionaries, and nutritional support for students. Through strategic funding and program development, BBYEF aims to create meaningful, long-term improvements in the lives of children and their communities.
Inspired by the life and legacy of Dr. Bettye Bouey-Yates, an educator and advocate for equality, the Foundation embodies her vision of using education as a tool to overcome adversity and uplift future generations.
BBYEF welcomes support from donors and volunteers to continue this transformative work.
Over the years, we have:
- Transformed an underutilized building into a thriving library
- Created state-of-the-art science labs and computer centers
- Provided thousands of books, dictionaries, and educational material
- Facilitated international exchanges for educators
- Extended our reach to Clermont and Clernaville Primary Schools
Together, we’ve grown into a movement that has empowered communities through education
The Schools we support
In the heart of KwaZulu Natal, near Durban, stands a beacon of hope: Christianenburg Primary School.
Established in 1920 by German missionaries, Clermont Roman Catholic School — located near Durban, South Africa — educates over 450 students from economically underserved areas.
Clernaville Public Primary School, nestled in one of KwaZulu Natal’s most economically challenged areas near Durban, has a rich history dating back to 1899 when German Lutheran missionaries founded it.
Learn about our projects and how your contributions will make a difference
Why Support?
Proven Impact
Transforming the lives of thousands
Sustainable Programs
Investing in meaningful projects
Community-Centered
Collaborating with local schools and educators
Transparency
Accounting for every expenditure
Equity in Action
Fighting for education in underserved areas
A Legacy of Hope
Continuing Dr. Yates’ vision for global change
Help us write the next chapter of our story.
