The Rawji Foundation Excellence Award Program: A Springboard for Future Congolese Generation
Since its creation in 2002, the Rawji Foundation has been committed to promoting academic excellence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Excellence Award, a flagship university scholarship program, reflects this mission by rewarding the brightest students in the country. In 2024, the program once again proved its impact by helping young talents move toward promising futures in the DRC and beyond.
Inspiring Journeys: 2024 Award Winners and the Rawtalent Program
Three winners of the 2024 Excellence Award — Lange Edjo Damaris (UPC), Joël Kimvuidi (Kongo University), and Marie Jolaine Kimbombi Nzuzi (William Booth University) — took a major step forward by joining the Rawtalent program. This initiative gave them the chance to apply their academic knowledge at Rawbank, the leading bank in the DRC, which operates nationwide.
Their successful transition from university to the professional world perfectly reflects the Rawji Foundation’s mission: not only to reward excellence, but also to support young talent as they begin their careers. The Foundation is proud of these young leaders who represent the bright future of the DRC.
Excellence Award: Over 1,200 Scholarships and Life-Changing Success Stories
The Excellence Award has granted more than 1,200 scholarships, changing the lives of many Congolese students. Richard Mbokani, a 2007 awardee, is a powerful example. Thanks to a $3,000 scholarship, he was able to continue his studies and become a lawyer in Canada. His remarkable journey, filled with prestigious degrees and inspiring lectures, shows the long-lasting impact of the program.
Christian Mpabwa’s Message: A Call to Ambition
“To every Congolese student: be determined and uncompromising. Seize this opportunity as a bridge to your dreams.” These words from Christian Mpabwa, a 2017 awardee and now a PhD student at the University of Ottawa, serve as a call to ambition.
With a $3,000 scholarship after earning his law degree, Christian was able to pursue a doctorate focused on the relationship between mining rights holders and local Congolese communities. His path is a strong example of the Rawji Foundation’s commitment to supporting talent and building future leaders.
The Rawji Foundation: Shaping Generations, Building the Future
Through the Excellence Award and other programs, the Rawji Foundation plays a key role in the development of the DRC. By investing in education and supporting young talent, it contributes to building a better and more prosperous future for the country.
Rawji Foundation: Shaping generations, building the future.