Wells Mountain Initiative

About Wells Mountain Initiative

Wells Mountain Initiative, usually called WMI, is a charitable foundation based in Bristol, Vermont, in the United States. It holds 501(c)(3) status, which is the American tax category for public charities. WMI aims to create social change at community level by helping talented young people from developing countries go to university. Its scholars are found in dozens of countries, mostly in Africa, and South Africa is one of the countries where students may apply.

The organisation was built around a simple idea. If gifted young people study and stay in their own countries, they can become grassroots leaders at home. In this way, WMI hopes to grow a global network of people who drive change in their own communities. Beyond the scholarship itself, WMI also offers skills-building, leadership development and start-up support for community projects.

How WMI supports students

The WMI Scholars Program offers partial scholarships for a first undergraduate degree or diploma. Published information says awards usually range from about US$300 to US$3,000 a year, and the average is around US$1,500. WMI gives out roughly 80 to 100 scholarships each year. The money may go towards tuition and fees, books, accommodation, meals and transport linked to study. The programme is open to any field of study.

WMI deliberately supports study in the student's own country. It does not fund study at universities in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia or Europe, and it does not fund master's or doctoral degrees. Because the awards are partial, applicants must show that they have some other support but still cannot reach university without help. Therefore, plan your budget carefully and name the other sources of money you will rely on, such as family support or part-time work.

What to know before applying

WMI looks for academic strength, financial need and a record of service. Scholars must complete at least 100 hours of community service every year they hold the award. For that reason, a history of volunteering helps your application. Applicants are also expected to plan to live and work in their home country after graduation.

WMI is a foundation, not an employer. It does not require recipients to work for it, and it does not set a bonded employment period. The expectation to stay and contribute at home comes from its mission, not from a contract. Application dates are set by WMI each year, and forms are completed online. Check the official WMI website for the current cycle, the exact eligibility rules and the closing date. Start early, because you will need to write personal statements and gather references and academic records.