One Bid, Real Impact: Celebrating Conservation Through Guest Support

Date 2025/07/16 20:22:17 by Shem Compion

To mark our 20-year anniversary, we wanted to celebrate in a way that gave back. So we hosted a once-off safari auction, a privately guided experience with Shem Compion at Mashatu Game Reserve. The format was simple: the reserve price covered the safari logistics, and any proceeds above that were pledged directly to conservation through the Tuli Conservation Trust.

The winning bidder, Mr W Waraich, contributed USD 1,750 and asked that the funds be split between two initiatives. This contribution is already helping make a difference. Part of it is supporting the upcoming Eco-Warrior Camps run by the Bana ba Bobirwa programme, which works with school children in the Bobirwa region of Botswana to build a deeper understanding of nature, wildlife, and conservation. These camps are often a child’s first real exposure to the work being done to protect Botswana’s natural heritage, and they leave a lasting impression.

 

The remaining portion of the donation was directed towards the Gobojango Community Horticultural Garden, a food security initiative that supplies produce to local schools and vulnerable community members. With the garden sitting in a known elephant corridor, the community has long faced challenges protecting their crops. The funds are now being used to strengthen the site’s solar-powered elephant fence and improve water infrastructure, creating a more secure and sustainable system for growing food.

 

We are deeply grateful to Mr Waraich for his generosity and intention. This was never just about a safari, it was about using a moment of celebration to do something meaningful. We also extend our thanks to Mashatu Game Reserve for partnering with us and making the experience possible. Their support in reducing the accommodation costs meant that more of the proceeds could go directly to where they were most needed.

This anniversary marked a milestone for us, but it also became a moment to reflect on what truly matters. Conservation is not a solitary journey, it’s something we do together.