Teach 300 Kruger Youth about Conservation

This postcard is written by Chi Nguyen, our In-the-Field Representative for Southern Africa. Chi will be traveling to the nine countries of Southern Africa, visiting and assisting our current partner organizations.

On Wednesday, April 16th, I had the privilege of visiting Global White Lion Protection Trust's several project site locations, a few being a primary school, a creche, and an orphanage. At the first school, we were able to witness a beautiful display of song, dance, and play from the children, demonstrating all that they have learned about the importance of conservation. They showed that we must respect the lives and habitats of the white lion and all of its friends in the kingdom, and they left nothing but smiles on every audience member's face when the play concluded. It was quite the production - the children were well-versed in their parts and in their knowledge of conservation. It was pure pleasure to see the children so engaged and excited to show all that they have learned.

After we visited the primary school, we were able to see a creche where the children were just waking up from their naps and were eager to play with all the volunteers. After touring the creche, we left the sleepy environment for the orphanage, where our vehicle was bombarded with smiling children. We hadn't walked two steps out of the car before they all surrounded us, asking our names, where we're all from, and other such various questions. They showed us to their main hall, where we all engaged in a bit of dancing before breaking for some biscuits and fruits.

By the smiles on their faces, you wouldn't have ever suspected that any one of them were orphans. They were so blissfully happy with the visitors, the dancing, and the cookies. They looked like any other group of children you might run into in any other part of the country. It was enough to bring tears to more than one member of the visiting group.