The Promise Foundation is a Charitable Trust, established in 1987 and comprises a core group of psychologists, social workers, special educators and teachers, and an international network of specialist consultants who provide services in the areas of mental health, education and potential realisation. The behavioural and cognitive sciences, anthropology and history describe fascinating avenues for human development in a multitude of areas. Yet, these opportunities and resources are not easily available to the largest sections of our populations, the poor. Broadly, we see our multiple programmes as focused on wellbeing and the two key issues of literacy and livelihood. The Promise Foundation's vision is to draw upon multi-disciplinary findings to inform culture-resonant programmes for the realisation of personal potentials amongst children and youth from disadvantaged homes.