20 Years of Change

January 6, 2025

Celebrating two decades of Eco Children 

Eco Children originated as an initiative by the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve (KPNR) aimed at educating and enhancing the lives of children whose parents work at KPNR through holiday 'bush' workshops. These sessions were crafted to help children appreciate wildlife and foster a generation of nature advocates for the future. 



As we commemorate 20 years of Eco Children, it's important to reflect on the remarkable journey that started with a straightforward concept: enriching the lives of children linked to the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve (KPNR). This initiative has grown into a transformative presence in South Africa, demonstrating that empowering youth can create lasting impacts on both the environment and local communities. 


The vision of Eco Children swiftly extended beyond the KPNR. Today, we proudly support nine Primary Schools in neighbouring towns and villages, benefiting a total of 5,347 children. While we've made significant strides, our mission remains unchanged: We empower the children in rural Mpumalanga and Limpopo by developing their capacity to flourish and become catalysts of positive change in their families and communities. 


We sow seeds of change by creating an environment conducive to learning, increasing their awareness of conservation; improving the quality of their education; and providing opportunities for talented learners. 

By weaving nature-based learning into the curriculum, children gain a richer understanding of their natural surroundings. This method not only elevates their educational journey but also empowers them to actively engage in conservation efforts. 


It's important to recognize that many children benefiting from Eco Children come from some of the most disadvantaged areas. By fostering a relationship between these communities and their natural heritage, we address educational disparities and economic challenges. As these children learn about conservation, they also acquire valuable skills that can lead to improved opportunities for themselves and their communities. 


Reflecting on the last two decades, we celebrate not only the milestones reached but the innumerable individual stories of growth, awareness, and passion ignited among the children. Each workshop, project, and school partnership has contributed to shaping the future of these young minds. 


As we continue to expand, we eagerly anticipate new partnerships and innovative programmes that will extend our reach and deepen our impact. We envision a world where every child has the opportunity to engage with nature and acquire the skills needed for its preservation. Our goal is to alleviate the challenges of poverty by providing access to quality education. 


Thank you for being an integral part of this incredible journey. Here's to many more years of empowering young minds and making a positive impact in our world. Together, let's ensure that the next generation inherits a planet that is not just preserved but thriving. 



Your support is invaluable, and together, we can continue to nurture a lifelong love for the environment. 


IMPACT

Our numbers

36,841

Books in 7 Libraries

5000+

School Uniforms Donated

355

Keyhole Gardens Established

58

Holiday Workshops

19

Winner's Excursions Held

60

Publications

Eco Village Sign

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Celebrating Themba’s Journey

By Mandie Gericke • August 7, 2025
Themba's journey with Eco Children began long before he joined our team. In 2007, he was just a young boy attending our holiday workshops hosted at Klaserie Private Nature Reserve’s headquarters. Even then, his curiosity and passion for nature stood out. Little did we know at the time that the young boy seated under the marula tree, learning about ecosystems and animal tracks, would one day become one of our most dedicated team members. Over the years, Themba remained closely connected to Eco Children. As he grew, so did his sense of responsibility and love for his community. He returned to us — not as a learner, but as a volunteer. For several years, Themba gave his time and energy to support our educational initiatives, always willing to lend a hand and share his growing knowledge with the next generation of learners. Eventually, his consistent commitment, vibrant spirit, and leadership qualities earned him a well-deserved place on the team. Themba was officially hired as an Environmental Educator, a role in which he continues to thrive today. Every day, Themba inspires young minds the way he was once inspired — guiding learners through environmental lessons, encouraging them to dream big, and showing them that they too can create change. His work goes far beyond the classroom. Themba is a mentor, a role model, and a living example of how investing in young people and education truly creates a ripple effect. This month, we honour not just the incredible work Themba does today, but the entire arc of his story. From a young boy in our workshops to a powerful force for good in our team and community — Themba represents everything we stand for.

Walking Wild 4 Girls 2025

July 21, 2025
The 4th edition of Walking Wild 4 Girls took place from the 6th to the 10th of July 2025, in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, and yet again it was another adventure filled with plenty of walking, learning and laughing. What made this year special, was the people with whom I shared the journey with: Gary Freeman, who hosted us at his camp and lead the trails, Percy, for whom I raise funds for, Mark, my brother and my Dad, Derek, Tas Savage and Nats Howes from Kateka Safari & Wellness, who have supported this initiative right from the very beginning, and my aunt, Debby, came out from the UK to join us for our time in the bush. This year was slightly different. We walked in the mornings, then would return to camp for an incredibly satisfying lunch, prepared by Gary himself, and then after a little nap we headed out into the bush at around 4 o’clock in the afternoon for another walk and sundowners.

Holiday Workshops with Eco Children

By Mandie Gericke • July 17, 2025
When the school term ends and learners head home for the holidays, Eco Children steps in to keep the energy, curiosity, and joy alive — through our much-loved Holiday Workshops. These workshops offer more than just a way to keep children occupied during the break — they are a space for growth, discovery, and connection with nature. Our dedicated environmental educators play a key role in bringing these workshops to life. With passion and creativity, they design engaging, nature-based activities that spark curiosity and inspire young minds. Whether it’s digging in the soil, learning how plants grow, or identifying insects and animal tracks, each activity is carefully planned to nurture a love for the environment. Children get the chance to experience first-hand what it means to care for the earth — all while having fun, getting messy, and staying active! In between games and gardening, learners enjoy energetic soccer matches, educational challenges, and creative expression — all under the guidance of Eco Children’s caring team. These moments aren’t just about play; they’re about building confidence, teamwork, and a sense of purpose.
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