Why We Take Learners to the Kruger
May 16, 2025
Inspiring a Generation of Environmental Guardians
At Eco Children, we are committed to nurturing young minds, not just with knowledge, but with experiences that awaken purpose. One of the most impactful ways we do this is through our Kruger National Park trips—a cornerstone of our environmental education program. These trips aren’t just about seeing animals. They are about unlocking new perspectives, inspiring dreams, and building connections to nature that last a lifetime.
Imagine being a child who’s grown up just kilometers away from one of the world’s most renowned game reserves, yet you’ve never set foot inside. This is the reality for many of the learners we support. When they enter the park for the first time, their faces light up with awe. The moment they see a giraffe gracefully crossing the road or hear a lion’s distant roar—something changes.
They’re no longer just hearing about wildlife. They’re experiencing it. They’re forming personal memories with the landscape that shapes our country’s identity. These moments are profound—and often life-changing.
Our Kruger trips are designed to complement our in-class environmental curriculum. But in the park, the lessons come alive.
Guided by Eco Children mentors, the learners take part in talks about:
• Ecosystem dynamics – how plants, animals, and people all play a role in nature’s balance.
• Conservation challenges – including poaching, climate change, and habitat loss.
• Sustainable practices – and how they can make a difference at home and in their communities.
These discussions aren’t abstract. They’re grounded in what the learners are seeing, hearing, and feeling. It’s hands-on education at its best. Beyond the educational value, these trips give learners a sense of belonging and self-worth. They see themselves as part of something bigger—as stewards of a heritage that is theirs to protect. For many, these outings are also their first opportunity to travel, to eat in a group outside of school, or to speak in front of others during group reflections. It builds confidence. It builds friendships. It builds dreams.
Thank You to The Legacy Experience Foundation. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our sponsors. This year, our first Kruger trip was made a reality through the support of The Legacy Experience Foundation, whose belief in environmental education mirrors our own. Their contribution ensured that transportation, meals, activities, and learning materials were all covered—removing barriers and allowing learners to simply immerse themselves in the experience. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and vision.
What starts as a day trip often becomes the beginning of a lifelong passion. The ripple effect is real—and it starts with a single day in the bush.
As we continue this year’s Kruger Trip series, we invite you to follow along. These are more than excursions—they are acts of empowerment. And with every child who into Kruger for the first time, we are investing in a more sustainable, compassionate future for South Africa.
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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.
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.
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.
