(Southern Africa)
Children in the Wilderness has an overall goal to facilitate sustainable conservation through leadership development of rural children in Africa. This is achieved in a variety of ways, from running three- to five-day camps at Wilderness Safaris camps, to running Eco-Clubs and Follow-up Programs at schools within the rural communities on the edges of the African wilderness. The camps combine leadership skills, environmental education and recreation—all in a unique and safe wilderness environment, where nature is both teacher and healer. The program aims at increasing the children’s understanding and appreciation of the diversity of natural environments, as well as to encourage them by demonstrating the opportunities that exist for them. Finally, it is designed to increase self-esteem, teach new skills and impart knowledge to the children.