OUR MISSION

TO FACILITATE SUSTAINABLE CONSERVATION THROUGH LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Children in the Wilderness is an environmental and life skills educational programme that focuses on the next generation of rural decision makers. It is one of the few programmes aimed at bridging the divide that exists between communities and wildlife.

Children in the Wilderness hosts rural children that live alongside our Parks and Reserves and teaches them the importance of conservation. The Children in the Wilderness programme aims to develop environmental leaders who are inspired to care for their natural heritage so that they become the custodians of these areas in the future.

Children in the Wilderness exposes children to their wildlife heritage, builds and strengthens their capabilities to cope with life's challenges and educates them with the life skills necessary to actualize their greatest potential.

“I will remember everything they taught me about the environment and my self to have a brighter future.” (Bathusi Zumbo – Children in the Wilderness Participant, Botswana)

“I came to a place of joy and passion. I will educate my borther [brother] and sister how to preserve nature.” (Roscah Ngoma – Children in the Wilderness Participant, Zambia)

GET INVOLVED

As successful as the Children in the Wilderness programme continues to be, there is an urgent need to grow and expand this programme and the number of its participants, so that we can have an even greater impact. With the right support and sponsorship, this programme has the potential to grow and make a huge contribution to the sustainability of Africa’s parks and the quality of life of her people.

Although Wilderness Safaris underwrites most of the programme, we do rely on charitable donations to ensure the growth and sustainability of the programme. Children in the Wilderness is seeking funding from partner organisations and individuals to assist in covering ever-increasing overheads. With support from Wilderness Safaris as well as participation by communities and governments, such a programme is a sound investment for anyone seeking to reap inspirational rewards for their money.

Our aim is to maximise the funds reaching the programme. On average 85% of the net funds raised are allocated directly to the camp programmes. Each programme is monitored to ensure that your money is being use effectively.

Children in the Wilderness Southern Africa comprises several independent non-profit organisations. Each organisation is a separately registered company with its own Board of Trustees. Each company operates independently but under the direction of Children in the Wilderness South Africa. The aim is to achieve operational independence in all the countries to guarantee a legacy of empowerment and longevity.

"The miracle that you have done to me I will never forget at my hole life forever. I like to say don’t stop what you are doing. Go on please. Take care of the children that are coming next years and show them all that you show us at this five days and teach them what you teach us”
(H Manganyi – Children in the Wilderness Participant, South Africa)