Background

The Steve Biko Foundation is a community development organization inspired by the legacy of Bantu Stephen Biko.  An examination of the leading South African institutions that have contributed to shaping national discourse, highlights the void that exists in promoting the intangible aspects of development: identity, culture and values, the issues that speak to the soul of a nation.  Since its inception, the Steve Biko Foundation has sought to fill this gap; and in the coming decade will intensify its efforts to strengthen democracy by championing dialogue, scholarship and programmes on the relationship between identity, agency, citizenship and social action.

Vision

To be the premier independent promoter of the values that Steve Biko lived and died for: restoring people to their true humanity.

Mission

• Create spaces for critical analysis and engagement with vital socio-economic and political issues in order to strengthen democracy
• Foster the intangible but essential community building blocks: history, identity, culture and values, as the foundation of leadership and agency at the level of the individual and the community
• Develop leadership at every level to enhance civic participation in the political, economic and cultural life of society
• Nurture and affirm fundamental human values

Core Values

• Respect for human dignity
• Self-respect and self-determination
• Affirmation of diversity
• Integrity
• Organisational independence