The Prescient Foundation supports initiatives within the communities they operate and have partnered with the School of Savings South Africa to expand their reach.   Through this partnership, the Prescient Foundation is funding the expansion of Project One Rand – a practical and inspiring financial literacy campaign – to an additional four schools in Durban, impacting nearly 500 Grade 10 learners.

“Financial literacy is one of the most powerful tools we can give  our youth,” says Nicole Pinto, CEO of the Prescient Foundation. “With Project One Rand, we’re not only teaching learners to save – we’re equipping them with the habits, confidence and knowledge to make smart financial decisions for the rest of their lives.”

The programme, delivered through the PENNYWI$E Money Management initiative, goes beyond classroom theory. Each learner receives a workbook, an activity-based guide, and a money box to start saving R1 a day – demonstrating the value of small, consistent steps towards financial independence. The programme runs for 18 months, ensuring sustained impact and long-term behavioural change.

The four schools participating in this phase of the project are:

  • Sacred Heart Secondary (167 learners)
  • Westham Secondary (92 learners)
  • Magqibagqiba Secondary (117 learners)
  • Phoenix Tech Secondary (116 learners)

This expansion follows a successful pilot phase in three Durban schools in 2023. The Prescient Foundation is proud to help bring the programme to more communities this year.


“Youth unemployment, high household debt, and a culture of instant gratification continue to limit opportunities for young South Africans,” adds Pinto. “Project One Rand meets learners where they are, giving them the tools to build a better financial future – and to pass those lessons on to their families and communities.”
Founded by Certified Financial Planner® Joe Chetty, the School of Savings developed Project One Rand to respond to the growing need for financial literacy among South African youth. The programme emphasises three key principles: Decision, Direction, and Discipline, and focuses on cultivating a savings mindset, delaying gratification, and understanding the difference between good and bad debt.


We are incredibly grateful to the Prescient Foundation for believing in this vision and enabling us to reach more young South Africans,” says Joe Chetty, Founder of the School of Savings. “Together, we are planting the seeds of financial confidence and resilience in the next generation – one rand, one lesson, and one learner at a time.”


The Prescient Foundation is dedicated to enhancing lives and communities for a sustainable future through their commitment to education, community upliftment, and sustainable development.  One of their core focus areas is uplifting the youth of today by investing in their future through their various education initiatives. Project One Rand complements these efforts by building financial resilience and future-focused decision-making skills.


With National Savings Month shining a spotlight on South Africa’s savings culture – or lack thereof – the Prescient Foundation’s support of this initiative is a step in the right direction.


Adds Pinto, “This is about more than saving a few rands. It’s about empowering the next generation to take control of their financial futures. And as we celebrate 20 years of the Prescient Foundation, we’re proud to invest in the leaders, earners, and changemakers of tomorrow.”