Creating hope – cultivating change

It all takes some doing, but through the individual and collective resources of Nolands, their employees and clients, some of the pressing needs of local communities are being met. Three powerful initiatives drive the Nolands Foundation’s work – each as exciting as the next. 

2Be Project

The 2Be Project helps young people build a solid foundation on which they can build. It’s run at schools, and engages learners, teachers, principals, and parents/guardians. The programme focuses on imparting values that have sustained society for thousands of years such as ethics, principles, and character development. By reaching and influencing all parties involved in a young person’s life, a ripple effect of positive change is created that impacts communities one individual, and one family at a time.

Proud 2Be She

Far too often, female learners miss crucial days of school due to their inability to access sanitary products during their menstrual cycles. The Proud 2Be She initiative supports these young women by distributing reusable sanitary products and facilitating workshops that guide them through their journey into womanhood. Besides sponsoring sanitary products, the Nolands Foundation engages with the learners to impart knowledge about self-worth and empowers them to embrace their unique identity with pride. 

The NOVA Initiative

As a result of social media, broken family units, and negative influences, mental well-being is at an all-time low, and teenage suicide rates are deeply concerning. Through the NOVA initiative being launched in 2025, the Nolands Foundation is committed to addressing critical mental health challenges by assisting at-risk youth and teachers. 

Research demonstrates that people connected to nature are typically happier and more likely to find life meaningful. Nature generates positive emotions such as calmness, joy and creativity; and is also associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety.

Recognising that many young people lack access to high-quality nature spaces, the Foundation’s goal is to facilitate transformative experiences in nature for learners and teachers, offering a potential pathway to improved mental health and well-being. 

"We should all do our bit of good wherever we are, because it’s the bits of good put together that overwhelm the world", said Archbishop Tutu.

So, if you’d like to learn more or join the Nolands Foundation in making a difference, please contact Paul Jones.

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Paul earned a DipTh (Cum Laude) in Theology, majoring in Developmental Psychology. As CEO of the Nolands Foundation since 2019, he has expanded its impact, enhanced education and reduced school dropout rates. Paul creates training programmes that drive meaningful change across South Africa.