WILDTRUST OFFICIAL

Last Friday, February 28th, WILDTRUST team visited the KZN National Botanical Garden (PMB) that was hyped with energy at the SANBI High School Career Expo. Grade 9 learners engaged with experts in biodiversity, science, and environmental management, exploring career paths that truly resonate with our mission of THRIVING FOR A RESILIENT FUTURE. These interactive sessions, with hands-on exhibitions, dynamic presentations, and one-on-one discussions, offered our future generation valuable insights into sustainable careers that can drive environmental innovation and resilience. We are inspired by the passion and potential of these young minds and remain committed to nurturing the talent that will build a greener, more sustainable tomorrow. A heartfelt thank you to the South African National Biodiversity Institute team for orchestrating such a dynamic event. #ThrivingForAResilientFuture #Education #Outreach #CareersExpo #Science #Conservation #Biodiversity #FutureLeaders #SustainableFuture

Today is World Wildlife Day, a day we usually take to celebrate the incredible diverse wildlife and marine life that call South Africa home. But this year, it comes with a harsh reality—it is the first World Wildlife Day since African penguins were uplisted on the IUCN Redlist, to Critically Endangered. With current population declines, their extinction could be as little as 10 years away. How can we celebrate when we are on the brink of losing one of our most iconic seabirds? The good news is, there is hope. You can help protect African penguins by urging the government to close key fishing areas and safeguard their food sources. TAKE ACTION NOW: https://lnkd.in/eBemW92F Every signature brings us closer to a future where African penguins remain permanently in our oceans and along our shorelines. #SaveAfricanPenguins #PermanentPenguins #AfricanPenguins #SouthAfrica #Pengone #Waddlewedowithoutthem

Happy World Wildlife Day 2025🐾💚💙 Today we highlight the transformative power of conservation finance under the theme “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet.” At WILDTRUST, we believe that a thriving planet and prosperous communities go hand in hand, and our two programmes, WILDOCEANS and WILDLANDS, embody this vision. WILDOCEANS is our commitment to preserving marine biodiversity, ensuring that our oceans remain a source of life, inspiration, and economic opportunity. WILDLANDS is dedicated to safeguarding terrestrial ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. Together, these programmes illustrate how strategic investments in nature can lead to sustainable development and resilient futures. On this special day, we honour the conservation heroes, partners, and supporters who make our mission possible. Let us continue to invest in our natural world and its people, creating a legacy where wildlife and human prosperity flourish side by side. #WorldWildlifeDay #WildlifeConservation #InvestInNature #wearethewild

A Must-Read for Conservation Enthusiasts Discover the inspiring journey of conservation in KwaZulu-Natal through Dr. George Hughes’ riveting book titled, The Natal Parks Board: A Conservation Adventure. Praised as a “chunky, thought-provoking, nourishing soup of a book” by The Witness, it recounts the pivotal efforts, from Operation Rhino to innovative conservation strategies that helped reverse wildlife decline. Launched at the WILDTRUST AGM in December 2024, this book is a testament to resilience, a core value that echoes our mission for a thriving and resilient world. Read the full review here: https://lnkd.in/giQyV_YW 📚 Order your copy directly from Dr. George Hughes at 082 772 3285 or george.hughes@iuncapped.co.za. #ConservationHistory #TheNatalParksBoard #WildlifeLegacy

This tax year-end, make a lasting difference by donating up to 10% of your company’s taxable earnings to WILDTRUST impact programmes, WILDLANDS and WILDOCEANS, empowering local communities and protecting endangered species on land and in the ocean. WILDTRUST is a registered Non-Profit Organization and Public Benefit Organization, offering tax benefits such as S18A certificates and B-BBEE points for your contribution. DONATE TODAY as this is the last day to submit your donations. Visit https://lnkd.in/dZgDRm6R or email Buyisiwe@wildtrust.co.za. Together, we can help create a better, more resilient world for future generations. #DonateForTheWild #SupportWILDTRUST #SustainableFuture #TaxBenefits #ConserveProtectRestore #Taxyearend #taxseason

Yesterday, the WILDTRUST’s "Environmental, Social and Economic Risks and Impacts of Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration and Extraction in South Africa" Project hosted a workshop with Civil Society organizations in Cape Town. This two-year project is a follow-on from a project that developed an oil spill model to predict the nature, behaviour, and trajectory of a potential oil spill in South Africa's ocean. The hybrid workshop, of over 70 participants, with representatives from the Small-Scale Fisher sector in Port Nolloth, Port St Johns and northern KZN, aimed to generate knowledge and understanding of the nature and magnitude of risks and impacts of exploration and extraction of offshore oil and gas in South Africa, through the lens of civil society. This workshop also highlighted the importance of industry consulting with fishers and other affected stakeholders, before decisions are made about the use of the ocean, because ultimately the health of the ocean is the source of their livelihoods. Although the information presented was highly technical, having isiXhosa, isiZulu and Afrikaans translators allowed for rich and engaging discussions during the session encouraging participants to share valuable insights and identify gaps to be addressed and considered by the project moving forward. The Green Connection.

Making Waves: Ocean Stewards Launch Recruitment for the Next Generation of Marine Conservationists and Advocates The Ocean Stewards, supported by the WILDOCEANS programme of the WILDTRUST, kicked off their recruitment campaign with an inspiring event at the Life Sciences Building at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), marking the beginning of selecting a new wave of passionate young scientists eager to make their mark in marine conservation, advocacy and awareness. Spearheading the event was Ocean Stewards Project Coordinator Samantha Hofmeyr, who was joined by accomplished alumni from this very project. These seasoned Ocean Stewards shared their success stories, thrilling fieldwork activities, and community outreach efforts, showcasing the profound impact the experience had on their lives. Marine biologist Xolisile Miya, a member of the 2022 cohort, reflected on how the project had shaped her career: "Being an Ocean Steward helped me understand and fuel my passion for marine conservation. People like Dr Jean Harris exposed us to different areas and guided us and mentored us." Sthembile Dlamini, another 2022 Ocean Steward introduced the Youth for Marine Protected Areas (Y4MPAs) initiative, a sister initiative offering hands-on conservation experience while advocating for the expansion and effectiveness of MPAs. She encouraged students to explore both opportunities to gain invaluable real-world skills and career-building experiences. Throughout the event, students engaged enthusiastically, asking questions about the application and selection process. The project is open to university students across the country, aged 18–35, who are pursuing postgraduate degrees in Marine, Environmental, or Social Science-related fields. If you’re interested in learning more about the Ocean Stewards Project, email Kirsten McClean at Kirstenm@wildtrust.co.za or Ziphozinhle Cele at ZiphozinhleC@wildtrust.co.za. Apply today for your chance to be a part of this lifechanging initiative! ezemvelokznwildlife Ocean Stewards University of KwaZulu-Natal Youth for Marine Protected Areas (Youth4MPAs)

UAs part of WILDTRUST’s iSimangaliso Marine Protected Area (MPA) Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Project, two dynamic workshops were held last week at iSimangaliso, equipping 32 young female graduates with personal development and interview skills to help them confidently enter the job market. Over the course of two days, participants explored their strengths, passions, and values. They gained practical tools for effective communication, navigating job interviews, and developing leadership skills. Through hands-on activities and discussions, attendees discovered strategies to stand out and take charge of their futures. Manqoba Sabela, Senior Manager, Learning and Development at the WILDTRUST and workshop facilitator , stated, “It was great to see participants embracing the opportunity to learn. Their engagement made it clear that these skills are crucial for boosting confidence. I am positive that this will make a difference in their lives.” These workshops, aimed at female graduates and post-matric certificate holders, are part of WILDTRUST’s broader effort to equip women with the skills necessary to thrive, ultimately helping to build more resilient and self-sufficient communities. This amazing work was made possible through support from Blue Action Fund and The Light Foundation.

To commemorate World Wetlands Day, WILDTRUST’s uThukela Marine Protected Area (MPA) Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Project, funded by the Blue Action Fund, hosted Wetlands Awareness Workshops in northern KwaZulu-Natal over the weekend. The events brought together community members from Nqutshini and Nyembe to emphasize the importance of wetland conservation. The WILDTRUST team facilitated discussions on climate change, agriculture, and wetland biodiversity, featuring insights from: [ ] Dr. Thobeka Gumede, who spoke on the critical role of wetlands. [ ] Nokuthula Mdletshe, who highlighted sustainable farming practices. [ ] Sphiwumusa Zama, who addressed the management of invasive alien plants. An interactive quiz kept participants engaged, with winners receiving reusable shopping bags, caps, and seedlings to encourage sustainable practices. By empowering local communities with knowledge and practical tools, WILDTRUST continues its mission to protect vital ecosystems and promote sustainable livelihoods. 💙🌱

To conclude a week filled with colour in iSimangaliso Wetland Park , the vibrant artistry of Giffy Duminy and Dylan Smith came to life on murals at the newly expanded eNkovukeni Community Resource Hub. The pair, alongside the iSimangaliso Marine Protected Area (MPA) Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) project team, transformed the Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre with bright visuals, all inspired by ideas from the community. During the painting process, the artists hosted a workshop at the eNkovukeni Hub Site, engaging with the community to gather insights for their murals while empowering local youth through training. A drawing competition allowed winners to paint alongside Dylan and Giffy. These ECD facilities serve as beacons of hope in coastal rural communities, providing young children with early learning opportunities that nurture their cognitive and social development. Asisipo Mhlonyane, the Community Manager for the WILDTRUST, shared her enthusiasm about this extension onto this hub of hope. She stated, “With this new addition, we can enhance the education of young children and foster a sense of stewardship for the land they call home. Who better to lead coastal and marine conservation in the area than its future leaders?” In addition to enriching education, these facilities will offer vital support for caregivers, especially single mothers. This will enable them to pursue work while their children thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. To further enhance this support system, local women will receive training in Early Childhood Development, creating a network of caregivers dedicated to uplifting and empowering mothers and grandmothers within the community. This amazing work was made possible through support from the Blue Action Fund and the Light Foundation.