Through worldwide initiatives, we aim to spark hope and drive sustainable change for generations to come.
In South Africa, amidst growing social and economic challenges, Dora Abofra envisioned a future where compassion and collaboration could drive lasting change.
Guided by a deep sense of purpose and empathy, she founded the Open Gates Foundation , a social entrepreneurship initiative dedicated to transforming lives through sustainable community development.
Through strategic partnerships, resource mobilization, and innovative projects, the Foundation works tirelessly to address poverty, inequality, and lack of access to essential services across South Africa and beyond.
Born from a vision to open doors of opportunity for those who need them most, the Foundation stands as a beacon of hope, empowering individuals, uplifting communities, and building a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Who We Are
The Open Gates Foundation is a social entrepreneurship and humanitarian initiative founded by Deborah Abofra, a visionary South African businesswoman passionate about driving positive social change. Established in the Republic of South Africa, the foundation exists to bridge the gap between privilege and poverty, tackling issues such as social inequality, unemployment, and lack of access to basic needs among vulnerable populations.
Through strategic partnerships, sustainable fundraising, and innovative community programs, Open Gates Foundation works to open doors of opportunity for individuals and communities to become self-reliant, productive, and empowered members of society.
ABOUT US
OUR MISSION & VISSION
MISSION
To mobilize resources and implement impactful programs that uplift the less privileged, empower
communities, and foster sustainable development.
VISSION
To create an inclusive society where every individual, regardless of background, has access to
opportunities and resources for a dignified life
OUR WORK
At Open Gates Foundation, we believe that real transformation begins when people are empowered with knowledge, skills, and resources. Our work focuses on four key pillars:
EDUCATION
Providing school supplies, scholarships, and mentorship programs to help children and youth pursue their dreams.
HEALTHCARE
Organizing free medical screenings, health awareness campaigns, and mobile clinics to promote wellness in under-resourced communities.
NUTRITION
Supporting families through food parcels, feeding programs, and nutrition initiatives in schools and elderly homes.
SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
Offering vocational training, entrepreneurship workshops, and micro-enterprise support to create pathways for sustainable livelihoods.
ABOUT US
HOW WE ACT
1
Research
We base our programs on rigorous, locally-led research to ensure interventions are relevant and effective. By listening to communities, mapping needs, and partnering with academic and knowledge partners, we design projects that respond to root causes — not just symptoms — and deliver measurable, context-appropriate results.
2
Collaboration
We believe lasting change happens together. Through strategic partnerships with governments, civil society, faith groups, businesses and community leaders, we combine expertise, resources and networks to scale solutions, avoid duplication, and amplify impact across regions.
3
Sponsorship & Investment
We invest in initiatives that deliver sustainable outcomes — from school infrastructure and bursaries to enterprise seed funding and community infrastructure. Our sponsorship model prioritizes long-term value, ensuring projects create opportunities for education, livelihoods and resilient communities.
4
Strategic Platforms
We use events, advocacy, media and learning platforms to elevate important conversations and influence policy and practice. By showcasing evidence, sharing stories of impact, and convening stakeholders, we mobilize support, attract partners, and accelerate the adoption of scalable solutions.
OUR BENEFICIARIES
Our programs are tailored to serve those most affected by poverty and inequality, including:
- Orphans and vulnerable children
- Women from disadvantaged backgrounds
- Unemployed youth
- Elderly individuals in under-resourced areas
- Persons with disabilities
By placing people at the center of every initiative, we aim to break the cycle of poverty and create opportunities for growth, dignity, and self-sufficiency.
SUSTAINABILITY & PARTNERSHIPS
The Open Gates Foundation is built on the principle of sustainable impact. Rather than relying solely on donations, we generate income through social enterprise ventures — such as community-run businesses and branded products , that feed directly back into our charitable programs.
We also collaborate with corporate partners through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, faith-based organizations, and individual donors to amplify our reach. Our annual Gala Dinners, charity auctions, and digital crowdfunding campaigns ensure continuous community engagement and resource mobilization.
By combining business innovation with compassion, we have developed a model that sustains both our operations and the communities we serve.
Become a volunteer
Join the Movement
The Open Gates Foundation welcomes partners, donors, and volunteers to be part of our mission to create lasting impact in communities across the nation.
Together, we can bring hope, opportunity, and positive change to every community , one step at a time
