Oct 28, 2025 | News, Success Stories
Pictured above: [left] Tevya Visser, WESSA’s Senior Sustainability manager leading the Green Key programme in South Africa accepting the Bronze award; [right] Kelly Alcock, WESSA’s Head of Education & Sustainability accepted the Gold Award on behalf of the Coastal Programme team.
We’re thrilled to share that WESSA walked away with two top honours at this year’s Eco-Logic Awards, hosted by The Enviropaedia! Our Coastal Programme proudly won Gold, and our Green Key Programme received Bronze in the Eco-Hospitality and Tourism category, a recognition of our long-standing commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism in South Africa.
Now in its 14th year, the Eco-Logic Awards celebrate the people and organisations driving meaningful change towards a sustainable future. We’re deeply honoured to be counted among them.
Our Coastal Programme win is a shared achievement. As Mike Denison, our Senior Manager for the Coastal Programme, puts it:
“We would like to recognise our diverse coastal partners, from local municipalities and state entities to civil society and community champions, who bring coastal conservation and sustainable tourism to life through the Blue Flag and Green Coast Programmes. Their collective efforts have also driven the growth of our Stop the Strangle action campaign addressing ghost gear and ghost fishing. We are proud to share this award with all of them. It reflects the spirit of Ubuntu, shared responsibility, and unity in protecting our natural heritage.”
Our Green Key Programme’s Bronze Award celebrates the commitment of South African tourism establishments that choose to operate responsibly and sustainably. As Tevya Visser, our Green Key Sustainability Manager, explains:
“This award acknowledges the dedication of our certified establishments and WESSA’s work in driving measurable environmental action within the tourism sector. We look forward to reaching many more establishments across South Africa and creating an even greater positive impact for people and the planet.”
For us, these awards are about more than recognition, they’re a celebration of the partnerships, teamwork, and passion that drive everything we do. As our CEO Cindy-Lee Cloete says:
“This recognition is a tribute to the people and partnerships that make WESSA’s work possible. From our dedicated teams and programme managers to our coastal communities and sustainable tourism partners, these awards reflect the collective impact of individuals who believe that caring for the Earth is everyone’s responsibility.”
As we approach our 100-year milestone in 2026, we remain as committed as ever to inspiring environmental stewardship and enabling real, tangible action that protects our natural heritage while empowering communities across South Africa.
Through our Blue Flag, Green Coast, and Green Key programmes, along with action campaigns like Stop the Strangle, we continue to show that responsible tourism can protect ecosystems, support livelihoods, and foster a deep connection with nature.
These Eco-Logic Awards remind us why we do what we do, and inspire us to keep building a future where people truly care for the Earth.
Sep 3, 2024 | Success Stories
In a landmark celebration of two decades of environmental education, WESSA proudly hosted the Eco-Schools Awards, honouring the transformative impact of the Eco-Schools programme across the nation.
For the past 20 years, the Eco-Schools initiative has been instrumental in promoting sustainability and conservation practices within schools and communities. WESSA Eco-Schools have taken the lead in environmental education, equipping students, teachers, and local communities with the knowledge and tools to champion environmental stewardship, encouraging a culture of environmental awareness and responsibility.
Over 2,300 schools have registered for the Eco-Schools programme, engaging more than 1.3 million learners and 32,000 teachers in direct and indirect environmental education efforts. These outstanding statistics highlight the significant impact of the Eco-Schools initiative in shaping environmental consciousness of South Africa’s youth.
The recent annual WESSA Eco-Schools Awards ceremonies, held across six regions, serve as a platform to commend schools, teachers, and learners for their exceptional commitment and achievements in promoting environmental stewardship. Through partnerships with organisations such as Sun International, eWASA, Nedbank, and others, WESSA has been able to amplify the reach and impact of the Eco-Schools programme, driving positive change in communities nationwide.
Among the notable recipients of this year’s awards are Epworth School and The Birches Pre-Primary School in KZN, honoured with Emerald awards for their sustained dedication to environmental action over 20 years. Additionally, 40 International Green Flags were awarded nationally, recognizing schools for their outstanding environmental efforts.
In a shining example of environmental leadership, Kabega Primary School in Gqeberha received a prestigious Diamond award for their decade-long commitment to sustainability. Through initiatives like a comprehensive recycling programme and integrated environmental curriculum, Kabega Primary has emerged as a model of promoting active citizens of environmental stewardship, inspiring change within their school and beyond.
The Department of Basic Education has identified local teacher support as a key objective for achieving educational quality.
Busi Dladla, Director for Curriculum General Education and Training, outlined that by incorporating WESSA Eco-Schools activities into the curriculum, educators provide students with practical experiences that enhance their learning outcomes while nurturing a culture of sustainability.
Dladla’s emphasis on the synergy between Eco-Schools and CAPS curriculum highlights the programme’s significance in shaping holistic education that prepares learners for the challenges of the 21st century. Through project-based learning initiatives, WESSA Eco-Schools empower students to become active participants in their education, encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and environmental awareness.
Nomfundo Ndlovu, WESSA’s Schools Programme Manager, expressed her pride in the accomplishments of participating schools and the enduring impact of the Eco-Schools programme. “These awards reflect the dedication and passion of our educators and learners towards environmental awareness and action,” she remarked.
For more information about the WESSA Eco-Schools programme and the awards ceremony, please contact Nomfundo Ndlovu at nomfundo.ndlovu@wessa.co.za.
Sep 3, 2024 | Success Stories
The ‘Youth Environmental Reporters and Advocates’ (YERA) programme, aims to empower a cohort of young people across South Africa to investigate, document, and communicate environmental issues in their communities.
The initiative, led by UNICEF South Africa and WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa), in collaboration with the Department of Basic Education, will build learners climate literacy and environmental knowledge, and enhance communication and reporting capacities on the local issues that matter to them.
“I am excited to learn how to raise my voice to create more awareness about the pressing environmental issues in our school and community,” said Saron Gidiso, a grade 10 learner at Marklands Secondary in Chatsworth. Another grade 10 learner, Imithle Mkhize, from Glenhaven Secondary in Tongaat stressed the importance of taking action now so that authorities could address the issues of water shortages, pollution, and littering to create a more pleasant environment. “If we don’t speak about it as the youth, then who will? These are things that affect us in our daily lives. We see it. We might turn our heads when we see a piece of paper and ignore it, but it affects us in the long run,” she said.
Over the next eight months, the YERA programme will be implemented across four provinces – KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, Northern Cape, and Eastern Cape, targeting 40 schools (ten in each province), and empowering 400 young reporters.
“The YERA programme embodies our commitment to environmental and social justice,” said Cindy Cloete, WESSA CEO. “By empowering young people, we are shaping a new generation of environmental champions who will lead the fight against climate change and advocate for sustainable solutions. We are thrilled to partner with UNICEF on this critical initiative and look forward to its transformative impact,” added Cloete.
Young people’s voices, particularly girls, often remain stifled, disconnected, and under-supported in the vital call for urgent action against the climate crisis and other environmental challenges they face. The ‘Climate, Energy, and Environment Landscape Analysis for Children in South Africa’, released by UNICEF South Africa in late 2023, reiterated the importance of increasing the visibility of children and young people in the climate and environment agenda to ensure policies and actions that respond to their specific needs.
“Empowering learners and young people, particularly girls, through education and nurturing their skills will build on their local knowledge to help raise their voices and strengthen action on local climate and environmental challenges,” said Christine Muhigana, UNICEF South Africa Representative.
“Young people are exposed to climate and environmental challenges today, they are best placed to tell that story and we need to respond to their needs by directly influencing climate policies and related community level adaption efforts,” added Muhigana.
Through a series of training, the programme will educate participants in investigative journalism, environmental science, and advocacy skills to enable young reporters to be champions of the environment. The workshops will utilise WESSA’s ‘Young Reporters for the Environment’ (YRE) methodology, with one of the key outputs being journalistic works produced by each participating school for distribution across a range of online and media platforms.
By working together, we can all ensure that youth in South Africa, especially girls, are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and platforms needed to raise awareness, influence policy, advocate for the environment, and take meaningful action.
“This programme is an important step forward in further nurturing environmental awareness among learners in South Africa and we hope the programme can be expanded in the coming months and years to benefit more South African schools,” said the KZN Department of Basic Education acting Chief Education Specialist, Lazi Mtwa.
The programme is made possible thanks to generous funding through the UNICEF Canada National Committee.
Click to watch the launch: https://youtu.be/i3RCQYcplFY?si=lhT8fPE2wZbdVK7q
Sep 3, 2024 | Success Stories
In a landmark collaboration, WESSA and the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) have partnered with Children in the Wilderness (CITW) to extend the reach of the Eco-Schools programme into Zimbabwe. This initiative marks a significant step forward in encouraging environmental stewardship and sustainability across borders, uniting Zimbabwe and South Africa in a shared mission to educate the next generation of eco-conscious leaders.
The partnership was forged with a dynamic three-day training session, led by Nomfundo Ndlovu WESSA’s senior manager for Schools and Youth programmes. Designed to equip the CITW team with the tools and knowledge needed to successfully implement the Eco-Schools programme, this training laid the foundation for sustainable environmental education in Zimbabwe. In addition, Nomfundo visited schools across Zimbabwe to directly understand the unique challenges they face.
WESSA’s expansion into Zimbabwe is inspiring to schools across Southern Africa. By incorporating eco-lessons into the curriculum, these African schools are now poised to tackle the unique environmental challenges they face with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The vision behind this expansion is clear: to create a ripple effect of environmental awareness that transcends borders, driving a network of young eco-warriors who will carry the torch of sustainability forward. Through ongoing support, regular follow-ups, and tailored guidance, WESSA ensures that the Eco-Schools programme in Zimbabwe not only takes root but flourishes.
As the programme continues to grow, so too does the bond between Zimbabwe and South Africa—a bond forged in a shared belief that environmental education is the key to a sustainable future. This collaboration is a symbol of what’s possible when communities come together with a common goal.
May 25, 2024 | Success Stories, Young Reporters
The Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE) programme empowers youth to investigate and report on environmental issues affecting their communities and the world. Through various mediums such as articles, videos, and photography, candidates explored topics ranging from biodiversity conservation to climate change mitigation.
We are delighted to announce the winners of the 2024 National Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE) Competition. After reviewing numerous exceptional submissions from talented young individuals around the country, our panel of judges has selected the top entries in each category: Video, Article, and Photography.
Video Category Winner: Nonjiwu Dumisa
Age: 17-years old
School: Zwelethemba High School
Title: How does fire affect people, fynbos, and the greater environment and what is its impact on climate change?
Nonjiwu’s compelling video focused on the dual nature of fire and its impact on ecosystems, particularly fynbos, a unique type of vegetation native to South Africa. His project explored how fire is an essential ecological process that can pose severe threats if not managed properly. By highlighting the critical balance needed to protect and maintain biodiversity, Nonjiwu’s video brings a vital perspective on the role of fire in ecological sustainability and the challenges posed by climate change.
Click here to see Nonjiwu Dumisa’s submission
Article Category Winner: Deeya Kalian
Age: 12 years
School: Trinityhouse Glenvista
Title: The Dirty Truth: Confronting the silent epidemic of illegal dumping.
Deeya Kalian was selected as the winner in the Article category for her exceptional investigative work on the issue of illegal dumping in South Africa’s diverse landscapes, highlighting its emergence as a critical environmental threat in Johannesburg. Deeya’s article sheds light on how illegal dumping not only spoils natural beauty but also poses significant health risks and complicates community efforts toward sustainability. Her compelling narrative calls for urgent action and accountability to tackle one of Johannesburg’s biggest environmental challenges.
Click here to read Deeya Kalian’s submission
Photography Category Winner: Phoebe Steyn
Age: 17
School: Hoerskool Zwartkop
Title: Suffocating Existence
Phoebe Steyn is our winner in the Photography category, with her evocative photograph titled “Suffocating Existence, Suffocating Life.” These powerful images feature a small, resilient green plant thriving in a harsh, ostensibly suffocating environment, symbolising hope and the potential for life under adverse conditions. Phoebe’s work beautifully captures the essence of persistence and adaptability in nature, reminding us of the resilience required to confront environmental challenges.
Click here to read Phoebe Steyn’s submission
We applaud Dumisa, Deeya, and Phoebe for their outstanding contributions to environmental journalism. Each winner has showcased exceptional talent and demonstrated a commitment to promoting greater environmental awareness and action through their talents.
The YRE Competition aims to empower young people to take a stand on environmental issues they are passionate about, and these winners have exemplified just that. Their work has been published and also entered into the YRE International Competition, where they will compete on a global stage with other top entries from around the world.
Apr 23, 2024 | Success Stories
The rugged landscapes of the Northern Cape offer refuge for the endangered pangolin, which faces dire threats from illegal trafficking and habitat loss. Despite their ancient lineage dating back 80 million years, pangolins are among the most trafficked species globally. Their decline is driven by misguided beliefs and demand for their meat.
Threat of electrocution
While Africa is home to four pangolin species, we find the Temmink’s pangolin in South Africa. Here the threat of electrocution on electrified fencing and habitat loss further endangers their survival.
During a recent field trip, I had the privilege of participating in the release of a rehabilitated pangolin rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. This female had progressed to the advanced stages of rehabilitation – confidently foraging for food, sustaining her weight, and engaging in necessary behaviour for survival. Her condition on arrival at the small rehabilitation centre a few months prior was in stark contrast. Then, she was weak, dehydrated, traumatised, and disoriented from captivity. She required intensive care in order to recover. Credit is due to the dedicated efforts of Machel Van Niekerk and her rehabilitation team, who tirelessly provided her with the necessary care and support.
Rehabilitation to re-wilding
Witnessing her roam freely in the darkness, under the watchful eyes of the stewards, as she feeds on ants and termites, is a testament to their commitment and care.
Joining a release team is always a privilege. Careful site selection ensures safety from poaching and tries to minimise other threats. After protocols are established, the tagged pangolin is released into the chosen environment and monitored through satellite and telemetry tracking. This soft release phase
demands meticulous care and collaboration among teams. Once self-sustaining behaviour is observed, the pangolin undergoes a hard release, completing rehabilitation to re-wilding. Tracking tags are removed and a final weigh-in is done before the rehabilitated pangolin takes her first steps back into a wilderness environment as a free-roaming animal.
Their journey from the duress of capture or injury to health and readiness for re-wilding is truly inspiring.
By Mike Denison
WESSA Pangolin Programme Manager
