Growing conservation leaders from the ground up

In rural corners of Africa, Children in the Wilderness is doing something special. It’s not just teaching kids about nature - it’s helping them grow into confident, compassionate leaders who care about their environment and their communities.Through fun eco-clubs, scholarships, and mentorship, this non-profit gives young people the tools to understand their natural world, connect across cultures, and imagine careers in conservation. The message is simple: young people don’t have to wait to lead, they can start right now.In today’s fast-changing world, the next generation is stepping up to take on big roles, not just in government or business, but as protectors of our planet. Children in the Wilderness is nurturing that leadership from the ground up, starting in childhood.The idea is that real conservation starts with education. Since launching, the organisation has been helping children learn about sustainability, the environment, and the role they can play in shaping a better future. It’s about more than lessons; it's about creating spaces where kids can ask questions, try new things, and feel confident in who they are.Here in Namibia, the programme partners with 13 schools and reaches over 400 children through its Eco-Clubs. These clubs are more than just after-school groups—they’re places where kids get hands-on with nature, run their own projects, and discover what they’re capable of. On top of that, scholarships help some learners continue their studies while staying connected to environmental work.What really sets this programme apart is how it treats young people. They’re not seen as “future leaders” who’ll take charge one day; they’re recognised as leaders right now. Children in the Wilderness gives them real chances to speak up, lead, and be part of decisions.And the learning doesn’t stop at the school gate. The organisation also runs YES Camps (Youth Environmental Stewardship), where young people get to meet conservation professionals, learn life skills, and explore future careers.Here it’s all about planting seeds of possibility and helping kids imagine a future where they’re not just guardians of the environment, but also scientists, entrepreneurs, and changemakers in their own right.

Growing conservation leaders from the ground up

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-18

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Growing conservation leaders from the ground up

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-18

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