The US Witsie

To ensure that Wits University remains one of Africa’s – and the world’s –
pre-eminent research-intensive educational institutions, with top academic standards, committed faculty, and supportive alumni.

The Josh Fund hosted an event in Seattle to honor and celebrate Josh’s 30th birthday in July. Representing the Wits Fund was board member, Ms Lindiwe Tardif. Her heartfelt speech, and wonderful life story touched the attendees:













"I feel truly honored to stand here on this auspicious occasion on behalf of The Wits Fund, which represents my alma mater, the University of the Witwatersrand, fondly known as Wits.

If you’re thinking – wait, “What is Wits Fund”? and “What does this have to do with Josh”? Hang tight and I’ll get to that in a moment. Before I do, let’s take a moment to remember why we’re all here. We’re here to honor the amazing person Josh was.

As you know, Josh was gifted in music, composition, production, and entrepreneurship. He possessed a profound passion for multicultural music, particularly the soul-stirring sounds of South Africa. He believed that music held the power to transform lives and that aspiring and talented artists, regardless of their circumstances, deserved opportunities to shine brightly. 

In honor of this profound conviction, and as a testament to their love for their son and his musical legacy, Josh's parents established The Josh Fund, ensuring that Josh's musical legacy lives on by supporting young musicians as they pursue their dreams.
And this is where the Wits Fund comes into play. When Josh's parents thought about the kind of young musicians their son would want to support, they turned to the Wits Fund. 
 
So, why the Wits Fund, you ask?
The Wits Fund is a nonprofit organization based in the United States that's all about supporting Wits in Johannesburg. Our goal is to ensure that Wits remains one of the top-notch educational institutions in the world. 
 
How do we do that? 
By strengthening the bond between Wits and its alumni; boosting Wits' global profile; and raising funds to support special projects, attract top-tier faculty, and assist deserving students in need of financial support. 

Wits University holds a special place in the hearts of the Markowitz family. Stephen, Josh's dad, is a Wits graduate who credits his personal and professional growth to the education he received there. Josh, too, had a deep connection with South Africa and embraced the vibrant culture of the country. He even invited South African students to his Bar Mitzvah in Seattle, showing his warm and inclusive nature.

Given these strong connections, partnering with the Wits Fund was a natural choice. The Josh Fund, through the Wits Fund, provides scholarships to deserving students in their final years at Wits. As we approach the second year anniversary of The Josh Fund, I'm thrilled to share the incredible impact it has already had. 

In 2022, the Josh Fund awarded a scholarship to Sibonelwesihle Kodisang, affectionately known as Sibonelo. Sibonelo is a talented jazz saxophonist currently in his fourth year at Wits. He is pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree and he embodies the same spirit and passion for music that Josh did. Recently, the Wits Music Department expressed immense pride in his academic achievements. When reporting on his progress, they highlighted his growth, maturity, dedication to his studies, and emerging leadership qualities. I see his story as a shining example of the transformative impact that financial support can have on deserving individuals.

Given this amazing start, just imagine the stories we'll share in the years to come! Tales of lives changed and the lasting legacy of Josh and The Josh Fund. Through Lori and Stephen's generosity and commitment to improving the lives of others, we have the power to change countless destinies.

As I stand here today, I'm reminded of my own beginnings in Soweto growing up under apartheid. I lived under apartheid for 20 years at a time when the "separate and unequal" system of education, known as Bantu Education, was in place. In those days, someone like me could only get access to a great education in private schools which had opened their doors to students of color, in defiance of apartheid. But these schools were very expensive and my mom's pockets weren't deep enough for them. Luckily, her employer (BMW South Africa) stepped in to help out and I was able to attend and graduate from one of these "open" junior and high schools, Sacred Heart College, and to go from there to earn 3 degrees from Wits, qualify as an attorney, move to the US, earn a 4th degree from Boston University, and have the opportunity to work for corporates like EY, Amazon, and Slalom. Without the generosity of others, I wouldn't have had access to quality education and I would have remained a victim of apartheid.

My journey shows how a simple act of kindness – of investing in someone’s education can create a ripple effect of positive change that transcends time and borders. I carry this appreciation in my heart and am driven to pay this kindness forward by advocating for equal educational opportunities for all so that others, regardless of their circumstances, can also benefit from the transformative power of generosity and education.
Today, there are countless individuals in South Africa, just like Sibonelo, who are eager to overcome their circumstances and embrace a brighter future. The Josh Fund, through its scholarships, offers a much-needed helping hand to these aspiring talents. 
 
On behalf of Sibonelo and the Wits Fund, thank you Lori and Stephen for your incredible generosity. 
 
Josh, thank you also. Your belief in the potential of young artists will carry your spirit forward for eternity.

Thank you all for joining us on this special occasion. 

May Josh's memory continue to inspire us all. 
 
May Josh's memory forever be a blessing.