Transforming Lives Through Education: The SOBA America Scholarship Endowment Fund
Every act of kindness has the power to change lives. For me, Dr. Bertrand Fote, that moment came 34 years ago when I was a student at St. Joseph’s College (SJC) Sasse, a prestigious boys’ boarding school in Cameroon —and my life changed in a way I will never forget. I was an ‘A’ student, but like many teenagers, I didn’t take school seriously, and I had no clear vision for my future. Everything changed one summer when my parents lost all their savings in the collapse of Cameroon Bank. Without an FDIC-like safety net, they lost everything, and I faced the very real possibility of not completing my education.
That summer, I learned about the Dr. Victor Anomah Ngu Scholarship for the Best All-Rounded Student. Winning it became my goal—not just for the financial prize but because I knew how much it would mean to my family. For the first time, I truly applied myself. I worked harder than I ever had, and when the results came in, I was the recipient of the award.
The impact went far beyond the financial relief it provided. When my father traveled to Sasse to accept the award with me, I saw the pride and joy in his eyes—pride that fueled my resolve to become like Dr. Anomah Ngu, a physician and SOBAN who had given back so generously. That day sparked a lifelong passion in me to pay it forward.
Today, as a successful emergency physician, I reflect on how one act of kindness changed my trajectory. That scholarship didn’t just help me—it allowed me to touch the lives of thousands of patients. I know what it feels like to receive a helping hand at a critical moment, and I am committed to making that moment possible for the next generation of students at SJC Sasse.
This is why we created the SOBA America Scholarship Endowment Fund and why we need your help.
The Challenge: Education in Cameroon
Bertrand Fote receives Victor Anomah Ngu Award for Academic Excellence (May 1991)
In Cameroon, access to education is not guaranteed. High school tuition must be paid by families, and for many, it’s simply unaffordable. Poverty forces countless children to drop out, despite their potential. For those who stay, the challenges are immense, but scholarships provide a critical bridge to opportunity.
The SOBA America Scholarship Program was created to reward students for academic excellence, good moral character, and financial need. Since its inception, we have impacted the lives of hundreds of young men at SJC Sasse. These scholarships not only help students continue their education but also inspire them to become future leaders and changemakers in their communities.
The Vision: A Sustainable Future
To ensure the sustainability of this life-changing program, we are establishing the SOBA America Scholarship Endowment Fund with a goal of raising $250,000. The fund will generate interest to support scholarships annually, creating a self-sustaining source of opportunity for generations of students. By contributing to this endowment, with a tax-deductible donation, you’re not just helping a single student—you’re helping to build a legacy.
Stories of Impact
- A Life Reclaimed: One recipient overcame financial hardship to become a university graduate and now mentors underprivileged students, paying forward the kindness he received.
- A Beacon of Hope: Another recipient, recognized for his exemplary moral character, is now a youth leader in his community, championing education for all.
These stories are just the beginning. Your support will ensure there are many more.
Join Us in Making a Difference
This is your chance to create a lasting impact. Every dollar brings us closer to a future where no deserving student at SJC Sasse is left behind due to financial hardship. With your help, we can make education accessible, inspire excellence, and nurture the leaders of tomorrow. Your donation is tax-deductible. You will be emailed a receipt acknowledging your tax-deductive donation.
Together, we can honor the values of hard work, integrity, and generosity that SJC Sasse instills in its students. Join us in building this legacy of hope and opportunity.
Thank you so much for sowing a seed of hope in the life of a young future leader with your donation.
Click here to make a donation today
Sincerely,
Dr. Bertrand Fote
President of SOBA America (POSA)