Young heroes for the environment

A new initiative from the Endangered Wildlife Trust offers children a a vital role in the conservation of our planet, while having the adventure of a lifetime. It is never too early to begin playing your part.

Eco Stars is a new kids only club, which was launched earlier this month at the Waterfall Polo Estate in Kyalami. This club plans to educate children about threatened wildlife, our environment and ways in which we can all help to keep it alive.

“An Eco Star is someone who loves nature and cares about threatened wildlife. Eco Stars are inspirational young people, who help to safeguard our environment. They realise that the health and wellbeing of our natural world, as well as the survival of the human race, depends on the actions which every person takes today,” said Vanessa Du Plessis, Head of Business Development and Funding at the EWT.

Get your Eco Passport

After signing up for the small fee of R185, Eco Stars receive a starter pack, which includes free goodies and an Eco Passport. This passport outlines the challenges that they will need to complete, in order to move through the six levels of Eco stardom. Eco Stars begin as Blue Cranes and earn points by completing activities and challenges that are educational and fun. When the Blue Cranes have earned enough points, they move on to the next level. They will also receive an exclusive, quarterly newsletter, which will include competitions and special benefits.

Eco Stars has already gained a young ambassador: Nadav Ossendryver.

Nadav is a Grade 10 pupil from King David Linksfield High School. Nadav founded and developed LatestSightings.com. This is a website that reports live wildlife sightings from the Kruger National Park and allows park visitors to track the most dazzling species and see them in action, in their natural habitats. The EWT are proud to have such an innovative young activist leading the way for other EWT Eco Stars.

First Eco Star member

“Our very first Eco Stars member - Christopher Dare (main image). Welcome to our world, together we can make a difference on our earth. Christopher is 8 years old and he attends the St. Peters Prep school. Christopher has a keen interest in nature and has visited many of the game reserves around the country. Christopher is concerned of the well being of our wildlife, especially our Wild Dogs and the plight of our Rhino’s, he would like to work in nature conservation one day. Well Christopher you have joined the right club to learn more about our environment and threatened species.”