Since its inception in 2020, Teachers CAN has been committed to empowering teachers as change agents within their schools and communities. Over the years, the Teachers CAN Fellowship has played a pivotal role in creating a network of passionate, motivated educators dedicated to transforming education from the ground up. However, as we evolve, we recognise the need for a more sustainable and scalable approach that ensures long-term impact and widespread reach.
Why the Shift?
Through our work, we have learned that teaching is often an isolated practice, with many educators lacking the necessary support, resources, and agency to drive meaningful change. Teachers value a sense of belonging and community, and they thrive when given the tools and opportunities to sustain their identity as change agents. We have also seen that teachers across all levels of experience—not just early-career educators—seek structured communities that support peer learning, leadership development, and systemic advocacy.
In response to these insights, Teachers CAN is shifting its strategic focus from the Fellowship model to the Multiplier Programme—a provincial, teacher-led initiative designed to equip educators with the skills and resources to localise the Teachers CAN Manifesto within their own schools and communities.
What This Means for Teachers CAN
The Multiplier Programme will provide a more structured, scalable, and collaborative approach to teacher empowerment through:
· One Face-to-face immersion which will be the first point of meeting for the Multipliers
· Ongoing online support, fostering continued learning and engagement.
· A dynamic and collaborative alumni network, enabling knowledge-sharing and sustained impact. This will be led by a dedicated Network Lead.
· Stronger ecosystem partnerships, working with key education stakeholders to amplify teacher-led innovations and ensure systemic change.
This shift is not about leaving the Fellowship’s legacy behind—on the contrary, we will continue to celebrate the impact of our past Fellows, maintain our Teachers CAN Alumni Network, and support them in driving meaningful change. However, by moving towards a broader, more inclusive model, we aim to reach 25,000 motivated teachers by 2030, ensuring that every educator has the tools, confidence, and connections to lead transformation in their local context.
Building Community
At the heart of Teachers CAN is a commitment to building strong, supportive communities of teachers who share experiences, ideas, and solutions. We understand that building community does not happen overnight, rather it takes real investment and mindful learning to create space for teachers. Teaching should not be a solitary journey, and our work ensures that educators feel connected, valued, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their schools. This collective effort is driven by our dedicated team—Zama, Steven, Bontle, Andisiwe, Zeenat, and Tshepiso—who work to engage teachers, create spaces for collaboration, and amplify their voices. Whether through face-to-face activations, online engagement, or localised support networks, our team plays a crucial role in ensuring that every teacher feels part of a larger movement for educational change.
Looking Ahead
As we embark on this new chapter, Teachers CAN remains committed to its core mission: ensuring that teachers support learners, innovate teaching practices, engage as equals, play active leadership roles, and connect to wider social change.
Together, with our growing network of educators, partners, and stakeholders, we are building a stronger, more resilient education system—one where teachers are at the forefront of shaping the future of learning.
By Zeenat Hendricks
Communications & Engagement Specialist for Teachers CAN