Stories with purpose for causes that matter
What we Do
The Connect Foundation creates exceptional content to empower nonprofits. Through films and photography, we tell their stories, helping them connect with wider audiences, attract funding, and maximize their impact. This content can be used across social media, websites, donor reports, and more, bridging the ‘digital gap’ that many nonprofits face.
We feature all our films on our YouTube channel, building a community of people who care and want to drive positive change. Through collaboration, we aim to support nonprofits in amplifying their work and creating meaningful, lasting change together.
Our Vision
We believe in highlighting the deep connection between people and our beautiful planet, inspiring collective action for a sustainable future. We support non-profit organisations in their vital work, igniting real-world change through meaningful storytelling.
Our Mission
We create impactful visual content for non-profit organisations addressing environmental and humanitarian issues, helping to raise awareness, inspire global engagement, and motivate action to create a lasting legacy.
Fund a Film
By funding a film you have the power to make a real impact on the ground, and you can support a cause that resonates with your passions. Whether it’s a non-profit organisation working to address a social issue, a particular species you feel connected to, a women’s rights initiative, or people in need, you can collaborate with us and create content for non-profits changing our world.
As a member of our community, you will actively contribute to making a real difference in helping to create a film for a cause that holds deep meaning to you.
Find out more at connectfoundation.org.za
Empowers Africa has partnered with Connect Foundation in order to provide a cost-effective solution to fundraising in the United States by acting as their fiscal sponsor. Any donations made here will be granted to Connect Foundation.
Empowers Africa uses Stripe to process credit card donations. Stripe has very stringent security rules which may lead to declined credit card transactions. If you are experiencing trouble processing your donation, kindly contact Nadia Derelieva at (917) 328-1611 or via email: nadia@empowersafrica.org
The Matriarchs: Short Film Series
This ongoing series celebrates the diverse stories of women whose experiences inspire and empower others. From addressing environmental and humanitarian issues to overcoming challenges like motherhood, gender-based violence, or economic disadvantages, each film spotlights one woman, offering a message of hope and resilience. As the series grows, we aim to feature more women, build a supportive community, and expand its impact—inviting support from those passionate about uplifting and amplifying these vital stories.
Masi Violin: Legacy Programme Short Film
This film will capture the inspiring story of the Masi Violin Legacy Programme, which uses the transformative power of music education to uplift lives and communities. Through creative storytelling, we will highlight the programme’s mission to train alumni as skilled teachers, create job opportunities for talented local musicians, and ensure the long-term success of the Masi Violin Outreach initiative.
Elephant Alone: Feature Documentary
Elephant Alone is a feature-length documentary, started in 2021, that tells the poignant story of the last elephant in South Africa’s Knysna Forest. The film explores the forest’s complex conservation history, following the work of SANParks and featuring community members like a descendant of the forest’s woodcutters and a local artist. This story highlights the global importance of protecting our natural heritage and creating space for wildlife to thrive. Filming will continue through 2025, with completion planned for the same year.
MasiCorp: Website documentary film
This impactful short film will creatively showcase Masicorp’s work in supporting the 40,000 residents of Masiphumelele, South Africa. By focusing on education, skills development, and collaboration with community leaders, Masicorp addresses the lasting effects of apartheid to help residents achieve sustainable livelihoods. It will be a beautifully crafted story designed to engage and inspire a wide audience.
Ulinzi Africa Foundation: Documentary film
Located in Tana Delta, Ulinzi Africa Foundation (UAF) is the first non-profit foundation to focus on ranger welfare, empowerment and facilitation. Through this film we aim to bring to life the various characters, personalities and hearts that strive daily to mitigate human-wildlife conflict and enhance anti-poaching efforts, creating a space that is secure and a thriving ecosphere for all.
Lessons in Conservation: Ongoing Short Film Series
We have partnered with Lessons in Conservation to create films that showcase their inspiring work: connecting children to Africa’s natural beauty and fostering young ambassadors for conservation. This ongoing series highlights the remarkable stories of the children, their dedicated team, and the shared journey of learning and protecting their natural heritage. Through powerful storytelling, we aim to help Lessons in Conservation expand their reach, inspiring more young people to take responsibility for our planet’s future.
General Donations
If you do not have any specific project in mind and wish the organization to use their own discretion, please click here.
Donations can also be made by check or wire transfer:
Checks should be made out to “Empowers Africa” and should be mailed to:
Empowers Africa
2 Beekman Place, Ste. 18B
New York, NY 10022
www.empowersafrica.org
(917) 328-1611
Kindly note in the memo section of the check that funds are for Connect Foundation and indicate a specific program if applicable. Or email us at info@empowersafrica.org.
For wire transfer details or more information, please email us at info@empowersafrica.org.
Empowers Africa has been approved as a U.S. public charity, contributions to which are tax deductible for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Section 501(c)(3) [EIN: 32-0403737] of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code.
Thank you for your support!