Working with the Big 5 of Africa!

It’s already been 6 weeks, 6 amazing weeks that is and unfortunately that means I will be heading back to the Netherlands soon. I can honestly not believe that I am writing my last project summary before embarking on the long journey back home...

After returning ‘home’ at the GRGL, back from a great weekend over in Knysna, I found out the elephants had decided to be naughty and break all the fences around the milkwood tree! ‘While the cat’s away, the mice will play’, I guess. Selati even managed to lift a gate up off its rail so we had to place it back, which took a lot of manpower, but luckily Hein, Patrick and Ettienne managed to do it. Not only had the ellies wrecked all the fences, they had also managed to mess up the voltage on the wires, so Hein and I placed a new energizer just outside the boma, so that everything was back in order.

This week it was time to work on the cheetah skeleton again. I had already assembled it and put it all in the right place (well except for the tiniest of tiny bones maybe) but we still needed to actually construct it. That is why local Ludwig Oosthuizen, a real pro when it comes to building skeletons, came to help me! Behind the rugged appearance of this man lies a crazy amount of knowledge on skeletons and an ambition to start a little museum of his own. Hence, he wanted us to come visit him and his skeletons, to see his ‘life works’. That is why Hein and I took Tammy, volunteer on the Predator Sanctuary project, to see Ludwig and his collection when she came to visit the Big 5 Wildlife Project on Wednesday! It was at a rather deserted farm in an area with no cell phone reception whatsoever and we know this because Tammy kept checking, ha-ha! But I must really say that his collection of skeletons was very impressive, he had literally everything ranging from tiny little birds and bats to entire elands and whales! When Hein thought it time to return to our duties at the lodge we left Ludwig and his bones. On the way back we almost drove into a herd of cows that were blocking the road in front of us, which wouldn’t have mattered because we weren’t supposed to be on that road in the first place, because... Hein got lost! We seriously had to turn around like three times before he found the right road and got us back to the GRGL!

When we finally did get back to the project we had to have a quick lunch before accompanying the wildlife vet on his mission. There was another buffalo with a red eye so we had called the wildlife vet in for a consult. Before darting we tried to lure the buffaloes with pellets to get them to move to a better spot for darting, so that they wouldn’t run into the thicket or water. Then the vet darted the male buffalo with the red eye and they all ran off. When we got to them we saw the male was down but not quite under so we had to restrain him as the vet topped his drugs off to get him to settle down. This buffalo was diagnosed with the same condition as the previous one - conjunctivitis and as such got the same bolus injection of antibiotics just under the sclera of the eye, together with multiple injections of antibiotics that I got to inject! It was very awesome to inject medicine into such a large & powerful animal!

Tammy also got to help us with fixing the wires around the milkwood tree in the elephant camp, this time trying out a new system! We needed a new system because Selati has a very clever way of breaking the wires, he uses his tusks to lift them until they snap, because he knows he won’t shock through them! So this time we collected rocks to use as weights on the end of the electric wires, so that when Selati tries to wreck them, he will simply lift the rocks and the wire will give way in stead of breaking and then when he lets go they will fall back into place... At least that’s the idea so here’s hoping that it’s going to work!

Then after feeding the cheetahs Hein invited me and Tammy to the lodge to have a beer with him and Patrick and obviously we didn’t say no to that! We had a nice chat about our busy day and then it was time for me to drive Tammy to the top gate and say goodbye!

On Thursday Hein and I tried helping the cheetahs Bobby and Victor out in the reserve with stalking and hunting prey! They were out in the open field where the springbok can usually be found and they were looking for food. So Hein positioned the car in the line of view between the cheetahs and the springbok so that they could cover some ground without the springbok noticing. As we did that, Bobby approached the car and was really using us as cover, which was pretty cool, it’s amazing how smart these animals are. Unfortunately, when Victor wanted to join up with his brother the springbok were onto them and the hunt was off... Which is when the cheetahs started focusing on Hein and me, circling the car! Quite scary ha-ha, but we managed to get rid of them!

Then it was time for another excited weekend filled with fun activities! So on the Saturday Hein and Kim dropped me off at Jukani where Roger was waiting for me to bring me back to Knysna for my second visit to the volunteer house. On our way there we had to pick up Sherry (USA/SA) from George airport, who was about to start her project! Then at the volunteer house we met up with Chun (UK), Jonas (Belgium), Katy (UK), Philip (USA) and it was very nice to see all of them again. We had an awesome time in Plettenberg bay where Roger had arranged for us to have a surfing lesson, very tiring, but very cool and I think in the end we all managed to stand up! That night we all went to bed pretty early because the sea had completely tired us out... Even so it was a short night because we had to wake up at 6:30 (!!) for our excursion to Mosselbaai! That is where we met up with Alex (Germany) and went shark cage diving, I will not elaborate on that, just ask Roger how I liked it ha-ha... Let’s just say the others had a great time! We also paid a visit to the Predator Sanctuary Project at Jukani, which was cool because we got to see Tammy again and were just in time for the feeding tour which is really nice to see. Then Roger took us to a backpackers in Mosselbaai which was quite cool because it was an old train turned into a hostel, so we spent the night there after a good dinner at Dros!

Then on the Monday we were all quite lazy so we missed breakfast and ordered our own before packing our bags and leaving for the Garden Route Game Lodge aka the Big 5 Wildlife project! When we arrived at the reserve we found out Hein and the guys were very busy working on a broken water pump, which was quite a laborious task and they couldn’t use us for it. So unfortunately we had no other choice but to go and relax by the pool! After a couple laidback hours, Hein collected us and took us back to the house where he started the fire and we had an awesome braai!

The next day Alex, Katy and Chun joined me on the project and we showed them the reserve. We had coffee with the rhino’s which was really nice and just as we were about to leave them to see the rest of the Big 5 we noticed a flat tire, so we got to spend some more time with them! When the wheel was fixed we showed them what a day at the project is like and as such we did fence checks, cheetah tracking, feeding of the crocs, cheetahs and buffaloes and Hein also taught us a lot about different plant species and which ones are edible and which aren’t. He told us all the medicinal purposes of the aloe ferox plant and said the juice taste very bitter, so he dared us to taste a tiny little drop. Obviously we all wanted to try, but I didn’t listen to Hein’s warning and as such my ‘tiny little drop’ was actually quite large so it was really disgustingly bitter! Luckily, we had some leftover rusks that could take the awful taste away. The guys were actually supposed to leave and head back to their own projects but because they liked the reserve and the project so much they decided to stay another night. So we went into Albertinia and Hein showed us some good student wines we had to taste. That night Hein made us potjiekos by the fire and it was really very good, I think we actually finished all of it. We had a very cool night as we enjoyed our student wines underneath the stars!

The next morning we did a special game drive for Alex, Chun and Katy, which I think they really enjoyed - as did I, even after 6 weeks it never gets boring! Then the four of us went for lunch at the lodge and had the most awesome springbok shanks ever. When we were done, the guys went to chill by the swimming pool and I helped Hein fix the roads and build an enclosure for a rock monitor that friends of his had donated to the reserve the day before. After that it was time to say goodbye to Alex, Chun and Katy as they left and headed back to Knysna...

Then it was really there...my last day on the project! Still can’t believe it and really don’t want to leave this amazing place and these awesome people. I’m honestly leaving my heart behind! There were a lot of odd jobs this day and I got to help on all of them. For instance, Hein had to make a pizza shovel for the restaurant, we had to weld steps onto a game drive car that had broken off and of course there were the usual tasks such as fence checks, rhino patrols etc. I also got to cut the meat for the cheetahs all on my own, which was pretty cool because I had to take the skin off and divide the horses leg into pieces by myself and then dust it with the predator nutrient stuff. After which we obviously fed the cheetahs...for the last time. Then we found out there was a fault in the electric fence in the lion enclosure and Patrick was going to fix it. So I got to embark on this adventure as it was quite tricky because the lions were pretty close to where the fault in the fence was. Then we almost got stuck with the car when we tried to get to the fence as close as possible which was quite funny, but not as funny as when I tried to fix the wires. In all the 6 weeks I had spent on the reserve I had never ever been shocked (well except for the time where I touched the wire on purpose after a couple brandy & cokes) but of course I had to do it on my very last day! As I tried to wiggle the metal into place to stabilize the electric wire to the fence my thumb got stuck and as I struggled to get it out I got the shock of my life. I think Patrick almost died of laughter! It was hilarious, 8000 volts on my arm!

Then we went into Albertinia for the last time where I did some last minute souvenir shopping and got some drinks for my going-away-braai. And before I knew it, it was time for dinner and so the fire was lit and Hein, Kim, Malan, Roger and I gathered round for my very last South African braai... I’ll be back!

Last but not least I want to thank everyone again for making this experience the best of my life! From day one you have gone out of your way to ensure a good stay and a great project so thank you all very much! You are all so very kind and caring and I had the best of times, thanks again guys!

Love to all

Elise van der Heijden

My EDGE OF AFRICA Experience

My EDGE OF AFRICA Experience

By Eavanna Maloney

It has taken me at least three months since returning home to be able to write this blog.

It was too difficult for me to put in to words how I felt about my experience of South Africa. Coming home was one of the hardest things I have had to do……….

I joined EDGE of AFRICA in March 2011 expecting to spend five weeks on their HIV/AIDS Awareness project, and left October! I spent five weeks on the most amazing project where I met the most wonderful people, including the inspirational Dr. Laurel Giddy at the HARRT Clinic and Annalene who runs the mobile clinic at That’s it. I met some fabulous people at EDGE of AFRICA…….. Dayne, Roger, Jo, Joash and Kholi. I met inspirational volunteers from all over the world. I was also lucky to be there for the infamous Chester crowd who gave me numerous laughs and giggles. Mel and Sioban I haven’t forgotten you and you know I love you!! It is difficult to describe how an experience like this can make u feel it truly filled me with love and joy. I was as high as a kite on life and love.

I worked as a Medical Volunteer coordinator from April I looked after volunteers from all across the globe and placed them on various medical projects which included HIV and AIDS Awareness, the Medical Community Project and Hospital Based Internships. I had the opportunity to meet fabulous volunteers. I stayed in the volunteer house which was always a hive of activity and laughter.

Through EDGE of AFRICA I had the opportunity to experience the true beauty and spirit of South Africa and indeed its people. I saw how somebody struggling to survive could be filled with such undying love, joy, generosity and positivity, I also had wonderful opportunities to see the beauty of South Africa on the EDGE conservation projects which included the elephant sanctuary, I had the chance to get up close and personal with some very large elephants, thank you Josaphine!! I was also lucky to go to ADDO Elephant Park and the magnificent Cango Caves at Oudtshoorn.

It really was an amazing experience working with EDGE of AFRICA and I would happily recommend them to anybody wishing to open their heart and broaden their mind. Thank you to EDGE of AFRICA for giving me the opportunity to work with you.

Marissa Shevins starts her African Journey!

In my country we go to prison first and then become president. -Nelson Mandela

Almost three weeks ago, I traveled to South Africa, to a place called Knysna, or “The Garden Route. Aptly named, it is one of the more beautiful places I have ever seen. I am living in a volunteer house working in the local community in HIV/AID’s education and prevention. I work with ten other girls from all over the world in various places ranging from hospitals to home based care clinics to schools and youth centers.

Initially I came here with the intention to learn about myself, and what I want from life. In high school I had a very strong sense of direction in terms of what I wanted for a career. Yet when I entered college I found that nothing I wanted before seemed right anymore and decided that in order to get back on track I needed to figure out something new. For me, my most important self realizations have always occurred in the magic that for me is Africa. I have heard many say that if you come to Africa and see the way it is in real life, not on TV, then you will never want to leave. I see what they mean. I come to this strange and beautiful place to find myself,

“There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered.”

Life here is almost dreamlike. The otherworldly beauty that surrounds me becomes almost commonplace. There are lush forests, deserts, mountains, white sandy beaches and endless ocean. The people are friendly and lovely despite their terrible living conditions.

Being here and working with these people really makes me realize how much I take for granted. These people who have so little have much more than most will ever know. They are the happiest people I have ever seen and that in itself is truly inspiring.

My 4th week on the Big 5 Wildlife Project

My 4th week on the Big 5 Wildlife Project

By Elise van der Heijden

Wow, a month has passed since I first arrived here on the project. It’s just amazing how fast time moves here. I guess it’s true what they say - time flies when you’re having fun!

This week started off with me paying a visit to another EDGE of AFRICA project - the Predator Sanctuary Project! Kim and Malan drove me up to project where Daleen (sanctuary employee) and Tammy (fellow EDGE of AFRICA volunteer) were awaiting my arrival. They showed me around for a bit at first, explaining what and where everything is and what the aim of the sanctuary is etc. Then Tammy took me into the enclosure of Phoenix, the 5 month old caracal and introduced me to him. He was very cute, playing with his little teddy bears, but don’t be fooled by his pretty face because his nails are already very sharp and dangerous (just check Tammy’s arms for proof)! After that we got to build a shelter for the tigers in the sanctuary, using wooden poles and nails and we had to take down a fence in the cheetah’s enclosure to provide them with more space. I also got to meet the cheetahs, as they were in the enclosure when we were taking the fence down and they licked my hand, which was a really cool experience! Last, but definitely not least, I got to join the ‘regular’ tour and feeding tour around the sanctuary, which was very informative and interesting. Thanks Predator Sanctuary!

Another exciting day was when I finally (!) got to meet Roger (EDGE of AFRICA Co-Director), who came to drop off famous French journalist, Thibault Jean-Jean, at the reserve. Thibault is currently working on a book on volunteers and their projects, so he was visiting all the EDGE of AFRICA projects and interviewing the volunteers. We took him out in the reserve and did all the things that constitute a typical day for a volunteer on the project - fence checks, cheetah feedings, checking up on the rhino’s and other animals etc - basically took him on a game drive with benefits! After Hein and I showed him the reserve, we went to sit down at the lodge, which is where he interviewed me for his book (and took way to many pictures of me haha)!

This week has been all about feeding the big cats at the reserve. On Tuesday, Patrick and I went to collect a dead donkey at the neighbouring farm, which had only died that morning. We took it back to the butchery at the reserve and removed all the legs, which are cheetah food for the following days. The rest of the carcass was meant for the lions and as such we took it into the lion enclosure. The idea was to quickly drop it off by driving in reverse and then breaking so that the carcass would fall off the car... But somehow the brakes were not as strong as they needed to be so in the end I had to pull the handbrake simultaneously with Patrick braking which was pretty funny, and we managed to get it off in the end!

The two free roaming cheetahs out on the reserve managed to get hold of a proper dinner as well, when they made their first springbok kill on the Tuesday. It was amazing to see them eating their first springbok out in the reserve again and they consumed it so quickly that they looked like they were pregnant! But that’s not all, because early Friday morning they managed to take down another springbok... Guess what springbok, Bobby and Victor are back on track!

Another big project we had going this week was the front gate. We had to make a new proper front gate out of two old gates and some scrap metal pieces. So we were in need of a plan! And as they say in South Africa “n boer maak 'n plan” – directly translated to mean ‘a farmer makes a plan’. In other words South Africans can be very resourceful! We decided to use one of the gates completely, a couple of metal poles and the middle part of the other gate. Hein and Piet taught me how to grind and weld on the spot and that’s how we got started on the project! It took us two days to put all the pieces together and we then moved it up to the front gate and put it in place, after which we painted it black. It actually looks very neat and professional!

Another thing that kept us busy during the week, was fixing all the fences at the elephant camp - thank you for that Selati (naughty reserve elephant)! He kept breaking all the wires around the milkwood tree, the wires around the boma to try and get in, and just fences in general. It was like he was doing it on purpose to keep us busy! We will be trying out a new system on the wires around the milkwood tree next week though to keep him from breaking them all the time, so here’s hoping that that’s going to work!

After a busy week on the reserve there was some time for relaxing on the weekend! On Friday afternoon Tammy and I took the BazBus all the way to Knysna, where Roger collected us from the Knysna pick up point and took us to the volunteer house. He then took us out to a bar at the waterfront for drinks. A little while later we drove downtown and that’s where we met up with the other volunteers - Alex (Germany), Carla (Netherlands), Chun (UK), Katy (UK) and Philip (USA). We spent some time at the Swing Café (local live band venue) and then returned home to chill by the fire.

On the Saturday Joash (another EDGE of AFRICA staff member) took all of us on an excursion to Oudtshoorn in the Karoo! We went to an arts & crafts market, the Cango Caves and an ostrich farm. The caves were absolutely stunning and it was very interesting to learn about the different kinds of formations that grow there. The best part of the excursion was definitely the ostrich farm - we got to feed and ride the ostriches! That was totally awesome!

That night all of us went into town again and had a great time hopping from bar to bar as they closed down one by one.

Then on the Sunday morning (way too early), Roger took me and Tammy to the Knysna heads for breakfast, which was really very nice! So, all in all a great week and a wonderful weekend up in Knysna!

Until next time…

Elise van der Heijden (from Holland in case you didn’t guess)

EDGE of AFRICA Volunteer

Big 5 Wildlife & Conservation Project

November 2010

Big 5 Veterinary Volunteering in South Africa

http://edgeofafrica.com/news/blog/My third week on the Big 5 Wildlife Project

Another week has gone by ever so quickly here on the reserve, filled with exciting stuff that has happened and the necessary labour. We started the week by working on the buffalo boma we’re building next to the house. This is where the buffalo will stay for a period of 6-8 weeks before the two bulls get sold, to test for TB. The plan is to get it done by next Friday, but it looks like that’s wishful thinking! Furthermore, we have checked all the fences for holes because we were planning on releasing cheetah this week, any and all holes we found have now been closed with rocks. I’ve also had the privilege of learning how to drive a tractor when Hein and I were reconstructing a road down in the reserve, and I must say it looks easier than it actually is, it’s definitely the weirdest thing I’ll ever drive...!

Over the weekend there had been a bad case of rhino poaching in the Western Cape (only three hours away!), where all the rhino’s on a farm have been poached within two nights, absolutely outrageous and horrible that people can do something like that! This has us quite worried about the rhino’s on the reserve and as such we have been checking up on them every morning, sometimes till late in the afternoon since they’re very capable of hiding. Luckily, all three of them all still doing great!

Then we arranged for the wildlife vet to come visit us on the Wednesday, because there were some things going on with the animals. First of all, we wanted to move a zebra stallion into the reserve with the ladies to go do his business, so the vet darted the dominant stallion of the four zebra. We then moved him into the reserve where I was allowed to administer the antidote IV, which was totally awesome!

After that we had the buffalo cow darted to check up on her red eye, which turned out to be conjunctivitis. The wildlife vet took care of that with some antibiotics and painkillers. We also had him look for signs of pregnancy and we learned that she is around 9 months pregnant, so that’s great news!

Next up was the release of the cheetahs, Bobby and Victor, two inseparable brothers. The vet darted them as well and we then collared them so that we can keep track of their location, average speed, temperature etc. Then we moved them into the reserve and once again I got to wake them up with the antidote IM, so very cool indeed! Because they seemed to be waking up rather slowly and were still quite groggy, we decided to stay with them the rest of the day to make sure they would be all right. Now they are doing great, are starting to get more active by the minute (making the springbok go crazy) and we’re anticipating their first kill out in the reserve this week!

Furthermore, we dug up a cheetah skeleton that was buried around about two years ago after that cheetah had died a natural death (old age). So I have also been very busy working on that skeleton as it is now my job to put it together for the conservation centre. It is very interesting to do, but not really that easy seeing as how there are lots and lots of tiny little bones! I’ll be sure to put pictures up when (if) it’s done...

The last veterinary experience I got this week was when we heard about the baby gray rhebok that was just lying down all the time and seemed to have a torn lip. Hein and I immediately drove there and checked the baby out. She was absolutely covered in ticks and her lip was indeed torn up, she was in bad shape and couldn’t even stand up anymore! So we decided to bring her back to the house where I put her on the table to have a better look at her. We then gave her painkillers and antibiotics and took out a lot of the ticks (especially the bigger ones) and then sprayed the rest of them. I was getting ready to stitch up her little lip after cleaning it thoroughly, when we suddenly saw her jawbone sticking out of her mouth! Unfortunately, she didn’t make it!

All in all, it has been a very exciting week! My first week without my fellow volunteers Hanna and Alma (miss you guys!), but luckily Hein, Kim and cutiepie Malan are still here, still very caring and welcoming towards me, so that’s great.

Being a veterinary student, I just loved the fact that I got to do a lot of veterinary work! But, even though we got a lot of stuff done, the list of things that still need to be done is even longer so I’m looking forward to next week!

Elise van der Heijden

Netherlands

EDGE of AFRICA Volunteer

November 2010

2 weeks on the Big 5 Wildlife Project, South Africa

Two weeks on the Big 5 Wildlife Project

By Alma Wallin Hedén & Hanna Träff (From Sweden) and Elise van der Heijden (From Netherlands)!

Ever since the first day on our project we have been feeding the elephants, Kidibone and Selati. It was a little bit scary at first, but it only took that first day and it had grown on us. Now we love it when they chase the vehicle to get their trunks on the pellets one before the other. Cleaning the elephant boma was also a part of our duty, but even this dirty work didn’t put us off, especially with Corne, who was always great fun to work with! Meeting the elephants in the evenings, before they go into the boma, you really get to know their personalities when they show off their tricks for treats!

Recently, the farmers surrounding the reserve have had trouble with a caracal that has been killing their lambs and sheep. It seems that this caracal is no longer killing just for food, but it is simply killing for the sake of killing. We had to go out at night on a bucky and drive around the property to search for it. It was really exciting even though we didn’t find it. Because standing in an African night, in total darkness and hearing the lions roar is a memory that will last forever!

The other daily routine, a bit more frightening, is providing the cheetahs with dinner. At first they look like cute little kittens, but as soon as they smell the meat they turn into the wild predators they are and always will be! Cutting the meat was also a part of this routine and having Elise on our side was a big contribution to the team when it came to that. Hein tried to convince us that you could be safe inside the cheetah’s enclosure as long as you show that you have authority and confidence. By taking us inside Inyanga’s enclosure with nothing more than a branch and a couple pieces of chicken he proved his theory right. What a thrill!

One day Hein and Corne took us up to the mountains in a valley, to teach us how to handle rifles. We got to shoot at targets from 30 metres and 100 metres with a 0.22 and a 0.308 Calibre, respectively. The whole thing was exhilarating but Hein’s compliments on our shooting made it even better! After the introduction to rifles we had to bring our skills into practice, when it was time to feed the snakes that are starting to feel hungry now that the temperature is rising. Unfortunately, summer time isn’t good news for every animal on the reserve, this time several small birds were unlucky... It felt bad, but sometimes it’s the law of nature!

Snakes weren’t the only reptiles whose appetites were awakened by warmer times, now also the crocodiles were ready for some food! Luckily, a local farmer could provide us with some chickens so we went to pick them up.

With the reptiles becoming all active again in summer, one of them, the Cape Cobra, even managed to escape its enclosure, but it didn’t get far and quickly got caught. After we discovered our talent in interior decorating and design the snake could be returned into its brand new enclosure!

Other important tasks in a game reserve to keep the animals and the guests happy, is general maintenance. Our duties in that area have been conservation work with planting trees. To make this gardening a little more exciting we got to plant them in the lion enclosure, so one of us had to keep an eye on the lions throughout the planting. Furthermore, there were a lot of roads that were flooded and muddy so they were a risk for the game drivers to get stuck in. In order to prevent that, we had to fill them up with rocks collected on the reserve. Also, with the cheetah release coming up, we needed to put up signs on fences all around the property about both the risk of dangerous animals and the voltage.

Something else we have really enjoyed doing in any and all weather conditions, was feeding Lucerne and pellets to the giraffes, buffaloes and rhinos. It was amazing to be so close to these animals and just watching them eat and behave naturally.

Last, but definitely not least, we would like to mention how welcoming and caring Kim and Hein have been to us since day one! They have been so dedicated to making sure that we would be able to make the absolute best out of our stay in South Africa. We couldn’t have wished for better hosts, there is no way to thank you enough! Surely, we will not only miss the work and all the animals but also very much the people, the hospitality and of course all the wonderful ‘braais’ (South African bar-b-que)!

For more details on EDGE of AFRICA wildlife & conservation projects visit: http://www.EDGEofAFRICA.com/

We are Learning - Siyafunda

I am learning...We are learning...Siyafunda

It was the 12th day in paradise for me! Even if i was here for the Everything Elephant conservation project, I still love the community work.

The 15th October 2010 was the Siyafunda Pre-School re-opening! Siyafunda means "we are learning“. Siyafunda is a school in the Knysna township in poor condition. The pre-school originally had one big class room for all of the kids, however with some effort, and some sponsors (from Italy) it was rebuild within three months! Now, they have 5 classrooms, 1 kitchen, and 2 toilets! Not enough, well EDGE of AFRICA built a cute kiddies playground, with a slide, see-saw and a gorgeous little Porsche(toy one of course) to play with.

So now, today is the day of the opening! The teachers are all dressed in their traditional dresses, with their faces painted. They started a dance before the official procedure started witnessed by the mayor, the sponsors from Italy & EDGE of AFRICA, and several more people with a lot of cameras.

The kids learned a few songs, and danced and sung all together in celebration of the event! Wait, what´s that noise? Oh, yes, the extreme fast sound you know out of the TV, which you could never ever repeat out of your own mouth without years of practice! "Lulululu" really, really fast!

After the really cute songs, the official presentation begun. First the mayor, then the sponsors (the principal was already crying), then Dayne from EDGE of AFRICA handed over their donated sign, made possible by two Chester University volunteers.

Now it's time for group pictures, but quickly interrupted by a comical moment of the Siyafunda principal reaching for her ringing phone from it's home in her bra! All the pictures nearly had her reaching for her phone and still with tears in the eyes! How funny and lovely is that?

After the presentations a buffet of food was served for the children and guests - snacks including spring rolls, wraps & drinks! EDGE of AFRICA was first, sorry, we were very hungry! The kids got lots of cake - their favourite!

Nadine Ballester - Germany

EDGE of AFRICA Volunteer

September/October 2010

For more details on EDGE of AFRICA community projects visit: http://www.EDGEofAFRICA.com/

Living & experiencing locally is not only a cheap way to travel but a far more beneficial one…

Living & experiencing locally is not only a cheap way to travel but a far more beneficial one…

When one thinks of traveling, usually the first thing that comes to mind is hotels, resorts and maybe a bit of camping or backpacking. Throw in some beaches, culture, sports and local food in and that is, for the majority of us, what a holiday entails.

How about…

…living, eating and working with locals? Does that sound at all interesting? The concept was born several years ago in the form of volunteer projects for the youth and gap year travelers and has now exploding into a great way to travel for all ages. In short it means your holiday expenses go towards local initiatives and you get to learn and live with ‘real’ people whilst on holiday. For some this could be 2 weeks and for other 2 months and even more.

Well, that’s the short of it, but now let us looks at what’s happening in the small town of Knysna, South Africa and how local movements are benefiting to community and the tourists:

• Wildlife & conservation projects run and supported by locals but still aimed at tourists. These projects raise awareness while still being beneficial to local conservation and tourist admirers. http://www.edgeofafrica.com/volunteer/project/everything-elephant/
• Community development projects supporting local initiatives and creating sustainable solutions and not just short term rewards. http://www.edgeofafrica.com/volunteer/project/inspiring-edge-/

Two local success stories:

• Knysna’s Recycling Swop Shop – donate unwanted items and they will go towards a project aimed at teaching life skills and creating conservation awareness. http://edgeofafrica.com/news/events/
• Big 5 Wildlife project – a course designed for locals and tourists to not only experience Africa’s famous big 5 but learn survival techniques, animal handling, reserve management and so much more. http://edgeofafrica.com/volunteer/project/big-5-wildlife-project/

To find out more about how to get involved while traveling in the beautiful part of the Garden Route, South Africa visit www.EDGEofAFRICA.com

The Heart of an International Volunteer Organization Lies in it’s Local Volunteers

The Heart of an International Volunteer Organization Lies in it’s Local Volunteers

Where would EDGE of AFRICA be without the help of our local volunteering staff? The answer… still stuck on square one!

South Africa is blessed with one of the most diverse and picturesque countries in the world. For this reason South Africans love traveling their own country more than international traveling. And so to do the million of tourists that flock to our shores and mountains, bush and desert each year.

What makes South Africa so special and why is it worth volunteering for?

Well for starters it’s hard to find a South African that doesn’t care immensely about there country and heritage be it natural or cultural. Warm people - warm climate, big heart – big smiles all round!

EDGE of AFRICA relies on team work with members based world wide however the core team includes local conservation specialists, community workers, home based carers and project coordinators. Close relationships with specialists in every project field are carefully nurtured, and constant updates with the local councils, medical professionals, researchers and community members ensure the support of reliable, sustainable projects. Every volunteer joining a project contributes to a team of people that truly cares about the integrity of the projects and their end goals.

We value the ties kept by volunteers long after they return home. Their donations, personal updates, ideas and mere support by keeping in touch prove the value of our projects and add to the lives of everyone getting involved.

We have a saying in South Africa – it is sometimes to hard to say goodbye, so we would rather just say “until next time…”

You want to go where?...Don't worry, you're in good hands!

You want to go where?

4 parents share their views on their daughter’s travels to Knysna, South Africa

"I had grave misgivings about my only daughter spending several weeks in South Africa; the country itself had a reputation for crime and was not a place I would have chosen for her placement. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the organizational skills of the placement leaders and the attention to detail shown. Pardon the cliché, she left as a child and returned an adult, Emma has far more empathy with the orphans and disadvantaged of that remarkable country than she would otherwise have had. I would not hesitate in recommending the experience to other parents of perspective volunteers as this is undoubtedly the opportunity of a lifetime and not to be dismissed lightly. She was a very special daughter and remains so, but is a little more worldly wise for the experience." Father of Emma Hitchen, 2010 EDGE of AFRICA Work Placement student from Chester University, UK

“The accommodation is clean, their meals are provided, there are rules they must keep to and the placement is well organized. She has only good things to say about Roger and Dayne and all the other people involved with Edge of Africa. You only have to look at the website to see it is a well run organization and I have got to say I would have no qualms at all about my daughter going back to Knysna. I would ensure that in her luggage this time there are plenty of items for these children to use. So if your child is asking to go to Knysna let them go because they will come back with some fantastic memories but they will also have taken part in the African culture and celebrations as well as making some lasting friendships. One friendship she made has just resulted in a wedding invitation!” Mother of Emma Hitchen 2010 Work Placement student to Knysna from Chester University, UK

“Your child like mine, depending on what they choose to do on their time off there will see things that most of us only dream of doing. Things like walking with and feeding the elephants, visiting protected game areas where they can see anything from a snake to an owl, lying in the sand on a beach made in heaven that lies just behind their house, travelling to other parts and towns surrounding them, taking part in the African culture and celebrations, visiting the townships where life is grueling, sad and poor, where they can give of their hearts and help these children. Depending on what area they are going to work in they can give of themselves, to teach like my daughter did. Teach things like language, knowledge of their own home, which ours is Canada, teach sports to the kids, crafts, hygiene, help in the orphanages with the smaller children and most of all show them love, and care which many of these children know nothing of. In return, they receive self-satisfaction, growth as a person, knowledge of what the word poor really means, an understanding of another culture, religions, languages, barriers, and make new friendships that they will seal during their stay there and hold close to their hearts for a lifetime.

My daughter is now planning her third return to Africa this spring since her first adventure, with a longer stay in the progress this time. She has, I’m sure, many memories, which I haven’t even heard of yet in the back of her mind. They have already started their lists of things to take back with them this time for the kids. Things like the simple everyday things we take for granted, like sneakers, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, and clothes. Money is of no value to these children unless it is given to EDGE of AFRICA team, to distribute to the centre in a meaningful and sustainable way.

I would, as a very concerned parent would recommend this trip to any young volunteer that is looking for a fulfilling thing to do in their lives. To the parents I would say help your child to accomplish this dream, with the thought that the staff at the EDGE of AFRICA will care for your child like he or she is there own. Your child will return to you changed yes, but in every positive way. “

Madonna Goodyear - Mother of Sioban Goodyear, EDGE of AFRICA Community Volunteer 2009 & 2010 from Canada

“My daughter Lynn and I quickly realized that EDGE of AFRICA offered all of what she was looking for in her African experience. As she was only 17, my main concern was for her safety and support, as well as for the chance to achieve her dreams and live and work amongst the people and animals of South Africa. From the initial contact with Dayne and Roger, all our questions and worries were dealt with in a professional and friendly manner .Lynn’s projects were carefully selected to meet her needs, and her itinerary planned. As a parent I felt it was good that she could do several different projects all under the care of the one organization. From day one, emails flew back and fore between Lynn and Dayne developing their friendship and giving Lynn and insight in to what was ahead. From the day she arrived, until now, a year on, EDGE of AFRICA has been a part of her life. It has totally changed her outlook on life, inspired her to study for her future and completely widened her horizons. Their continuing support will not only always maintain her link with South Africa but I have no doubt will also hasten her return and am sure EDGE of AFRICA will play a large part in many more adventures for Lynn.

Glenys Munro - Mother of Lynn Munro, EDGE of AFRICA Wildlife & Conservation Volunteer 2009 from Scotland

Final thought from Madonna Goodyear of Canada…

“From Africa, I received back from this adventure a daughter whose greatest qualities have grown. One who has learned threw her experience the real meaning of poverty. A girl who has grown beyond every possible dream I could have ever had for her. A girl whose dreams have reached places that I have never seen coming. A young person whose adventure in Africa has had their mind opened to many possibilities in life and the things she wishes to accomplish in the future. A person who has seen the true meaning of sharing, giving and loving until it truly hurts. ‘A person who has left their heart in Africa.’ I am proud of my daughter for all she has done there to help these kids both in 2009, and 2010 and again this coming spring 2011. “

A Mother's Interpretation of Her Daughter's African Adventure

THE EDGE OF AFRICA

By Madonna Goodyear

A PARENT WHO HAS BEEN THERE AND DONE IT!

Around October of 2008 my daughter Sioban Goodyear announced to me on her way to Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada that she and her best friend Melissa Jackman would be going to South Africa, to work with a volunteer organization called the “EDGE of AFRICA”, based in the tiny town of Knysna. They would be working with an out reach program for children and youth called, “Sinethemba.” It would be lie if I said anything other than the fact that my heart dropped through the bottom of my feet and my mind raced wildly with the many thoughts of the things that could happen to them there.

We tried with all we had to convince Sioban not to take this trip, but to no avail. With the realization that there was no way to change her mind and not wanting to be the person who spoiled her dreams I dug in with everything I had to help the girls raise the money they needed to succeed with this goal. I started to look at the fact that at 22 years of age it would be a lifetime adventure that she would always remember and that I would probably never forget!

The process of the trip was the hardest of it all. We had to make sure that all the proper things were done: passport, needles, airplane tickets, flight agenda’s, essential items that they would need and times to check in with us which we agreed would be every airport they landed and left from on their trip.

After months of preparation, and the trip being the sole conversation with my daughter every time we spoke, the time finally arrived for their departure. It would be far from the truth if I said that at the airport there was anything but apprehension, fear, and many, many tears when the plane left the ground with them.

My daughter’s voice, every time we spoke to her on the trip over to South Africa was filled with excitement of what was to come in the weeks ahead and the many things she was seeing during each stay at every International Airport that they landed in.

The girls finally arrived in Johannesburg, South Africa where they spent the night in the Southern Sun Hotel while they awaited their final flight to George, South Africa. Sioban told us they were treated like Royalty there from the time their private transportation picked them up until their delivery back to the airport the following day. She said every thing within walking distance was beautiful to look at. There are pictures of this hotel on line to ease any parent’s thoughts of the conditions that they think their child may stay in. This hotel stay was simply because we couldn’t get the plane tickets to coincide with the pick up times, and we felt safer with them in a hotel with private pickup and delivery back to there next flight to George where they were to be picked up by the EDGE of AFRICA staff Dayne and Roger.

After their arrival in George and their trip to Knysna, the girls were taken to the place they were to stay. Sioban sent pictures via Internet so that I could see their living quarters. I was amazed at the house, the cleanliness, and beauty of it in addition to the security around them and the protection that the girls received 24 hours a day.

The arrival of my daughter in Knysna began the start of hundreds of emails, pictures and stories of her adventures. I can truly say that I had never heard my daughter so happy, content, and full of life as those weeks she was in Knysna. The constant fact that I could have contact with her and the staff of EDGE of AFRICA with an email or a phone call eased our minds immensely. The following is an excerpt from one of her emails:

“Hello; Hope everything is good at home! Everything is perfect here, we spent the day playing soccer and ‘diski dancing’ with like 2000 kids, everyone from the townships all came together, it was a great time. I love it here!!!!!!! And sissy made fat cakes (toutons) for us today and Sinethemba, so of course that was fantastic! Ha, ha. We have been pretty busy so that’s good too. Jon’s clothes fit most of the kids perfect of course; Jon was thrilled about that when I told him! They said “Tell your man he’s an African King! ha, ha. They call us their “African Queens” they keep calling us names in Afrikaans but I can’t remember what they are ha, ha. I’ll tell you when I get home. Mom stop worrying about us, we are perfectly fine and perfectly safe!!! So safe it is annoying in fact! We can’t so much as walk to the bathroom without someone with us, always watching over us. I just wish I had some cheery sauce!”

Your child like mine, depending on what they choose to do on their time off there will see things that most of us only dream of doing. Things like walking with and feeding the elephants, visiting protected game areas where they can see anything from a snake to an owl, lying in the sand on a beach made in heaven that lies just behind their house, travelling to other parts and towns surrounding them, taking part in the African culture and celebrations, visiting the townships where life is gruelling, sad and poor, where they can give of their hearts and help these children. Depending on what area they are going to work in they can give of themselves, to teach like my daughter did. Teach things like language, knowledge of their own home, which ours is Canada, teach sports to the kids, crafts, hygiene, help in the orphanages with the smaller children and most of all show them love, and care which many of these children know nothing of. In return, they receive self-satisfaction, growth as a person, knowledge of what the word poor really means, an understanding of another culture, religions, languages, barriers, and make new friendships that they will seal during their stay there and hold close to their hearts for a lifetime.

The promises that EDGE of AFRICA makes about a lifetime of memories are very true to their word. They fulfill every expectation these young volunteers may have in their minds with the impact of a few added ones that they never seen coming like an overwhelming love for these people and sadness they experience when the time comes to leave them. Strong feelings that they can’t shake off even after their return home. After my daughter’s first trip I knew her heart belonged to these people and when she announced her plan to return again in the spring of 2010 it wasn’t the surprise I received the first time and my heart only dropped half way to my boots this time. I knew that Dayne and Roger who ran this organization and who are now looked as part of our family, would always take care of our precious daughter and would always keep her safety and well being as a top priority on their list.

The program itself is affordable; their housing is immaculate in a safe area, with their food being brought to them according to their likes and dislikes. Their laundry is done for them and their transportation to and from their work areas is supplied for them on a daily basis. During their time off there are strict rules they must adhere to at all times; these are of course, for their own safety and well-being.

My daughter is now planning her third return to Africa this spring since her first adventure, with a longer stay in the progress this time. She has, I’m sure, many memories, which I haven’t even heard of yet in the back of her mind. They have already started their lists of things to take back with them this time for the kids. Things like the simple everyday things we take for granted, like sneakers, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, and clothes. Money is of no value to these children unless it is given to EDGE of AFRICA team, to distribute to the centre in a meaningful and sustainable way.

These children at the youth centre spend much time making crafts, soccer, reading, learning new games and doing things to make their day-to-day lives more bearable. My daughter brought back some of these crafts, which I can say are absolutely beautiful, although they are made from nothing more than some, wire and beads. So, keep that in mind if you decide to bring any craft supplies with you. Anything and everything is appreciated by these children especially your love and time, things that money can’t buy in any culture.

My daughter’s hands on knowledge of this volunteer group, its organizers Dayne and Roger, staff and the children of Sinethemba, have brought many stories of her time in Africa into our lives. Her memories are now apart of our memories.

The apprehension and fear that this trip brought into our lives in the spring of 2008 as my daughter loaded her bags aboard the car to leave us has since diminished. My heart at that time was filled with fear for her safety, her dreams, and her knowledgeable but still naive understanding of the adventure she was about to embark on.

As my big hearted, funny, life loving daughter, whose worse decision to make was the next courses to take in University boarded the plane leaving behind the security of her home, family, and life to undertake what would become the biggest adventure of her life my heart pounded with fear.

As her time there passed and her emails and phone conversations with us continued I learned though her words the following things: She left her home where the statement: there’s nothing to eat here became the reality of seeing what nothing to eat really means to these people. A home where I have nothing to wear really means nothing to wear. Where these shoes are to old to wear to no shoes at all. She saw that a night’s entertainment out here, would be a great day of ball there played with anything that could be used for the purpose in bare feet. A new dress would become some clean clothes to wear and a 30-minute shower for her here is water to wash in, period for these children.

She would experience a gift from the children, which would cost nothing in money value simply a great day out quietly fishing with the children at their favourite spot in which the walk to would kill her feet. She would learn that care, love and attention which she had at all times at home, were a treasure for these kids, which they achieved through those volunteers that went there and gave from their hearts to them. She would learn that the Macaroni and Cheese that her and Melissa cooked for them was in essence a gourmet dinner for them, which made these children feel, loved and cared for. She would learn at the orphanage that holding a small child in her arms and have them look into her eyes would give her feelings that she couldn’t explain, not even to me. She learned their culture, their religion, experienced their foods, saw their hardships, and made life lasting friendships with the children, the people and the other volunteers and welcomed it all with open arms and a chance to learn things first hand that she could only read in books or see on TV. In turn, I learned with each new email or phone call I received from her.

From Africa, I received back from this adventure a daughter whose greatest qualities have grown. One who has learned threw her experience the real meaning of poverty. A girl who has grown beyond every possible dream I could have ever had for her. A girl whose dreams have reached places that I have never seen coming. A young person whose adventure in Africa has had their mind opened to many possibilities in life and the things she wishes to accomplish in the future. A person who has seen the true meaning of sharing, giving and loving until it truly hurts. A person who has left their heart in Africa. I am proud of my daughter for all she has done there to help these kids both in 2009, and 2010 and again this coming spring.

I would, as a very concerned parent would recommend this trip to any young volunteer that is looking for a fulfilling thing to do in their lives. To the parents I would say help your child to accomplish this dream, with the thought that the staff at the EDGE of AFRICA will care for your child like he or she is there own. Your child will return to you changed yes, but in every positive way.

If any parent would like to ask me any questions about anything, contact me at mgoodyear49@hotmail.com. Please note in subject line that it is about the EDGE of AFRICA Program otherwise I will delete the email as I do with any from people I don’t know.

Thanks for your interest in my thoughts,

Madonna Goodyear

Mother of Sioban Goodyear (EDGE of AFRICA Volunteer 2009 & 2010)