The Canon Collins Trust, in collaboration with the Tom Queba Memorial Fund and Pegasys, is now welcoming applications for the Tom Queba and Pegasys Scholarships for Social Change for study at South African universities in 2026. These highly esteemed scholarships are targeted at exceptional individuals dedicated to driving transformative change in South Africa’s social, environmental, and civil society sectors. With a strong commitment to academic and leadership development, the program provides successful scholars with both funding, valued at R85,000 for up to two years, and a supportive platform for growth through a range of organised events, conferences, and participation in an influential scholars’ network.
The overarching goal of the scholarship is to contribute directly to social and environmental development in South Africa, with a keen focus on uplifting the country’s most disadvantaged communities. To this end, eligible fields of study are purposefully broad, including Justice, Education, Humanities and the Arts, and Sciences and Applied Sciences. Ideal candidates are those who demonstrate a clear vision for change and the capacity to make significant impacts in their respective fields. The scholarship is open to black or coloured South African nationals, as defined under South African Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) legislation, who reside in South Africa, are under the age of 34 at the start of their course. They must hold at least a second-class upper division undergraduate degree or its equivalent. Applicants must already be enrolled in, or applying to, an Honours or Master’s programme at a South African university for 2026.
A notable feature of this opportunity is its strict policy forbidding the use of Artificial Intelligence tools at any stage of the application process, ensuring that all submissions reflect the applicant’s own authentic voice and work. Applications are currently open from 4 August and will close promptly on 2 September 2025 at 17:00 South African time. Candidates are strongly encouraged to submit early due to heavy portal traffic close to the deadline. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed in October or November, and final outcomes will be communicated by December 2025. This scholarship offers not only substantial financial support, but also invaluable engagement with a thriving community of changemakers who are committed to building a more just and equitable South Africa.
Location:
South AfricaBenefits
Recipients of the Tom Queba and Pegasys Scholarships for Social Change will gain a comprehensive package of financial, academic, and professional development benefits. Each scholarship is valued at R85,000 for the 2026 academic year, and funding can be provided for up to a maximum of two years. The scholarship supports both full-time and part-time study at Honours or Master’s level at any South African university, including distance learning options.
Scholars not only receive financial support for their studies but also benefit from active participation in the Canon Collins network. This includes invitations to an annual conference, where current scholars from diverse fields gather to exchange ideas, as well as a series of smaller, skill-building events held throughout the year. These gatherings are designed to foster leadership abilities, broaden perspectives, and encourage collaboration across disciplines.
In addition to academic advancement, scholarship holders become part of a vibrant and supportive alumni community, connecting them with likeminded changemakers who share a passion for social and environmental justice in South Africa. This network can open doors for collaborations, mentorship, and future career opportunities focused on meaningful social change.
Eligibilities
- In terms of definitions provided in South African BEE law, be a black or coloured South African national residing in South Africa
- be under 34 years of age at the commencement of your course
- be in possession of a good first degree (minimum second class, upper division or equivalent) or about to graduate in the year of application
- be studying or applying to study at Honours or Masters level at a South African university
Application Process
To apply for the Tom Queba and Pegasys Scholarships for Social Change, applicants should follow these steps:
- Check Your Eligibility:
Confirm that you meet all the scholarship criteria—being a black or coloured South African national (according to BEE law), residing in South Africa, under 34 years of age at the commencement of your course, holding at least a second class upper division undergraduate degree (or equivalent), and studying or applying to study at Honours or Masters level at a South African university. - Prepare Your Application Materials:
Gather all required documents and compose your application strictly using your own original work. The use of any artificial intelligence tools to generate or edit your application is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate disqualification. - Download and Read the Guidelines:
Thoroughly review the official scholarship guidelines to understand all requirements and prepare a strong application. - Apply Online:
Access the application portal via the Canon Collins Trust website (canoncollins.org/scholarships/tom-queba-scholarships-for-social-change/). Complete the application form with accurate details and upload all necessary documents. - Submit Your Application Before the Deadline:
Applications are open from 4 August 2025 and close at 17:00 South African time on 2 September 2025. It is strongly recommended to submit early, as high traffic can affect the portal close to the deadline. - Wait for Notification:
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in October or November 2025. All communication regarding your application’s outcome will be sent via email in December 2025; applicants should not email the Trust to ask about results.
Application Deadline: September 2, 2025 (3 Days Remaining)
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