In 2016, ITL became the first management company in Mauritius to set up a foundation in the island economy. The Foundations Act of 5th June, 2012 empowered companies to set up private foundations, and ITL leveraged this Act to mark a cornerstone in a journey that has since spanned a decade. Today, we have various clients within our portfolio, with foundations focusing on Africa and Mauritius.
As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, it also serves as an occasion to remind ourselves that our journey has come full circle, with a foundation of our own. On the last Friday of 2024, the ITL family gathered for our end-of-year celebrations and bore witness to the official launch of the ITL Foundation, our dedicated CSR arm that will drive our commitment to making a positive impact in our community.
Making a positive difference: ITL’s commitment to creating positive impact
Since 2020, ITL has been a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative that believes businesses can be a force for good. We are also a proud supporter of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNGC urges companies worldwide to align strategies and operations with ten universal principles on human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption, while asking them to take actions that advance societal goals.
At an overarching level, ITL has adopted a group sustainability strategy, which embraces the rising global ESG initiative. ITL develops solutions and services that align with key UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our expertise particularly supports clients in areas related to Gender Equality (SDG 5), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), Climate Action (SDG 13), and Life on Land (SDG 15).
As a signatory to the UNGC, ITL submits an online Communication on Progress (CoP) questionnaire which focuses on five disclosure areas (Governance, Human Rights, Labour, Environment and Anti-Corruption) and a CEO Statement of continued support.
One of ITL’s directors, Françoise Chan, also represents ITL on the council of the Global Compact Mauritius and Indian Ocean Region. The council provides a regional platform for businesses to engage with stakeholders from the Governments, the UN, civil societies and communities to map a shared approach for the achievement of the SDGs.
The role of foundations: Why ITL started its own
In a world filled with challenges, the role of foundations, both charitable and non-charitable, stands paramount. These organisations serve as beacons of hope, driving positive change in communities worldwide. We take pride in our mission to support and empower these foundations in their noble endeavours – and, recently, we have followed on the heels of such inspiring examples by establishing our own charitable foundation, the ITL Foundation.
Drawing from our vision and mission, the ITL Foundation focuses primarily on the following pillars:
- Education, including women empowerment,
- Community development and poverty alleviation, and
- Health.
Our foundation’s pillars of focus are aligned with our employees’ interests and values, to enhance engagement and foster a sense of purpose, by leveraging their passion and commitment to drive meaningful social impact.
ITL has been actively supporting stakeholders, including NGOs and governmental agencies, that are engaged in ecological transitions. We are committed to partnerships that foster environmental sustainability and contribute positively to ecological conservation. To further evince our dedication and commitment to our community, the ITL Foundation shall continue to focus on education, poverty alleviation, environmental and sustainable initiatives for a better future.
Beyond sustainability: Adding magic to the season of cheer
With our focus on driving meaningful social impact, the season of cheer last December was a clear call to action for the ITL Foundation. This festive season, it was our honour and privilege to treat 30 SAFIRE (Service d’Accompagnement, de Formation, d’Intégration et de Réhabilitation de l’Enfant) children to a magical day, bringing them joy and wonder!
As soon as the ITL Foundation volunteers arrived, with beautifully wrapped presents in tow, the children’s excitement was palpable. The excitement was perpetuated by the rest of the carefully crafted programme which went on to encompass a delicious lunch, a creative decoration workshop, fun games and traditional carols.
With laughter and music echoing in equal measure through the children’s home in Verdun, the children also performed a dance show, demonstrating their artistic talents to a delighted audience.
Of course, the most highly anticipated moment was the unwrapping of presents. The children regarded this year’s star-studded gifts with touching euphoria and the remote-controlled cars were well used in an exciting race that brought bright moments of joy to both the budding young drivers and adults alike!
This memorable day would not have been possible without the valuable involvement of ITL Foundation volunteers, who gave their time and energy to create unforgettable moments. “This celebration perfectly embodied the spirit of Christmas – bringing happiness to others and sharing these precious moments. Seeing the children’s radiant smiles whilst unwrapping their presents and participating in activities was simply magical,” said Luana Virahsawmy, Council member of the ITL Foundation.
ITL Foundation and SAFIRE: Twice the impact
Finally, the Foundation made a well-deserved donation to SAFIRE, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to this noble cause. SAFIRE, established in 2006, is an NGO working for the rehabilitation and social integration of street children. Based on the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the organisation develops projects tailored to the specific needs of these vulnerable children, whilst advocating with authorities to strengthen their rights.
Over the years, the ITL Foundation – which is committed to creating a positive impact in the community through various charitable and social initiatives – has increased its support for SAFIRE.
Significantly, the Foundation donated refurbished laptops that are currently being used in the children’s computer laboratory. The Foundation provides financial support to the NGO through donations that enable it to continue its critical mission.
Impactful initiatives: Continuing 2024’s thrust into 2025
The year of the Foundation’s official launch, 2024, was particularly rich in community initiatives, including the creation of a mural celebrating art as a medium of expression for children. Unveiled on Children’s Day, the mural was the result of an overarching project that involved 18 enthusiastic volunteers and was duly celebrated vide a special day dedicated to this artistic endeavour.
We hope to continue these impactful initiatives in 2025 and look to our volunteers for support and enthusiasm as we impart hope and meaning to countless lives in Mauritius and beyond.
