Biodiversity Heroes: Inspiring Stories of Those Making a Difference
In the sprawling tapestry of South Africa's biodiversity, there exists a group of extraordinary individuals who have emerged as champions of conservation. They are a collection of remarkable minds spanning the urban, marine, species, agriculture, and pollinator biodiversity sectors. Each member of this illustrious cohort has dedicated their lives to protecting and preserving the rich ecological heritage of this diverse nation. Through their influential and highly impactful work, they have brought about significant positive change, ensuring the longevity of South Africa's precious natural resources.
In the sprawling tapestry of South Africa's biodiversity, there exists a group of extraordinary individuals who have emerged as champions of conservation. They are a collection of remarkable minds spanning the urban, marine, species, agriculture, and pollinator biodiversity sectors. Each member of this illustrious cohort has dedicated their lives to protecting and preserving the rich ecological heritage of this diverse nation. Through their influential and highly impactful work, they have brought about significant positive change, ensuring the longevity of South Africa's precious natural resources.
As we celebrate these Biodiversity Heroes, it becomes evident that their collective efforts have an immeasurable impact on our environment. From pioneering sustainable farming practices that foster harmonious coexistence with nature to spearheading marine conservation initiatives that safeguard our coastal ecosystems, these individuals have set a remarkable precedent. They remind us of the urgent need to prioritise and actively engage in biodiversity preservation. Let their stories inspire us all to embrace our role as custodians of the Earth and work tirelessly to protect the delicate balance of life that surrounds us.
Mokena Makeka
Mokena Makeka is a distinguished architect, artist, and urbanist, currently working as a Principal at Dalberg Advisors. He holds a B.Arch Dist. Hons from the University of Cape Town (UCT) and has pursued executive leadership qualifications from prestigious institutions such as Harvard Kennedy School and Oxford University. Mokena is actively involved in promoting inclusive African cities and serves on the boards of the South African Green Building Council and the Cape Town Central City Improvement District. He has been recognised as a Young Global Leader at the World Economic Forum and a member of the WCS Young Leaders in Urbanism. With expertise in African cities, design, social and spatial practices, and demographic change, Mokena is highly sought after as a speaker and thought leader. He is the founder of the House of Makeka, which aims to create smart, inclusive, and impactful design experiences. Throughout his two-decade career, Mokena has led interdisciplinary teams, advised on strategic infrastructure processes, and contributed to notable projects worldwide. He has held key positions on multiple boards and possesses skills in design, strategic insight, problem-solving, and effective communication. Mokena's profound understanding of organisational oversight and corporate governance allows him to excel in research engagements and change management projects at the governance level.
Moreover, Makeka, in collaboration with Matthew Barac, is leading a research and knowledge exchange project that focuses on the future of cities and forests. This initiative includes a series of events, starting with three dialogues at the Architecture Biennale in Venice. Makeka will serve as the discussant, exploring the role of design as a speculative discipline for envisioning alternative futures. The dialogues will delve into the material, symbolic, and functional aspects of placemaking. Makeka's talks aim to inspire the emerging generation of design professionals and visionary leaders by highlighting the significance of imagination and innovation in shaping our future cities and forests. Makeka’s remarkable work is amplified by his recent appointment as President of the South African Institute of Architects, where he hopes to serve his colleagues, society and the noble art that made him who he is.
Rashiq Fataar
Rashiq Fataar is a dedicated urban practitioner and the visionary behind Our Future Cities, an independent organisation headquartered in Cape Town, South Africa. His mission is to drive the transformation of cities, fostering inclusivity, progressiveness, and sustainability. In 2012, Fataar embarked on a journey as a full-time advocate for expanding public discourse on urban futures. His dynamic initiative expanded to encompass urban issues in Lagos, Johannesburg, London, and, in 2016, Durban, ultimately shaping the formation of Our Future Cities. With an impressive following of over 120,000 supporters, the organisation has emerged as a leading platform for cities in South Africa and across the African continent.
The impactful work of Our Future Cities has been showcased in prestigious venues worldwide, including the Guggenheim Bilbao, Vitra Design Museum in Germany, and the FRAC Centre in France. Drawing upon his background in finance and economics, Fataar excels in fostering collaboration between diverse stakeholders such as property developers, government agencies, architects, artists, anthropologists, and urban planners. His leadership also saw him serve on the board of Cape Town Tourism at the young age of 26, spearheading the vibrant Young Urbanists community. Recognised as a sought-after speaker, Fataar has travelled extensively, sharing his expertise on a global stage, from New York to Rio de Janeiro, Barcelona to Kuala Lumpur.
Lewis Pugh
Lewis Pugh is an exceptional individual with a passion for our planet's well-being. Known as an endurance swimmer, maritime lawyer, and the UN Patron of the Oceans, he utilises his swims as a powerful medium to raise awareness about the health of our oceans. Having achieved remarkable feats, Lewis became the first person to conquer long-distance swims in all the world's oceans, including pioneering swims across the North Pole and the English Channel. In 2016, he founded the Lewis Pugh Foundation, dedicated to preserving our oceans and protecting their magnificent wildlife. With his efforts, over 2 million km2 of vulnerable seas, an area larger than Western Europe, have been safeguarded, and his ambition is to safeguard 30% of the world's oceans by 2030.
Lewis is also a sought-after speaker, captivating audiences from prestigious organisations such as Barclays, the UN, and The Commonwealth. Recognised as a "master story-teller" by TED, Lewis shares his inspiring journey of undertaking seemingly "impossible" swims and the subsequent campaigns for conservation. He emphasises the importance of vision, teamwork, meticulous preparation, resilience, adaptability, and above all, purpose. His exceptional contributions have been acknowledged through various accolades, including being named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, and a recipient of South Africa's highest honour, the Order of Ikhamanga (Gold Class).
Calley Chateau-Cyster
Calley Chateau-Cyster is a dedicated marine biologist and research assistant at the Two Oceans Aquarium Education Foundation. Armed with a Master's degree in Marine Biology from the University of the Western Cape, Calley's passion lies in the captivating world of the ocean. Through immersive educational experiences and experiential learning, Calley endeavours to inspire others and highlight the significance of the marine ecosystem in our lives. One of her notable contributions includes her involvement in a non-profit organisation that encourages young children to forge a connection with the sea by embarking on enlightening snorkelling journeys and providing valuable insights about the ocean's invaluable worth.
Additionally, Calley serves as the Director of the #SeaTheBiggerPicture Ocean Initiative, a visionary project dedicated to ocean conservation. With a core focus on raising awareness about the pervasive issue of ocean plastic pollution and its detrimental effects on the environment, this initiative strives to clean up South Africa's beaches and ocean by organising beach cleanups, fostering corporate engagement, and prioritising educational endeavours.
Candice Stevens
Candice Stevens, a visionary in green finance and sustainable solutions, leverages her expertise to develop innovative financial strategies for preserving our natural landscapes. As Chair of Africa's Sustainable Finance Coalition, she collaborates with industry leaders and diverse stakeholders, striving to bridge Africa's nature finance gap. Additionally, Candice holds the esteemed position of Head of Innovative Finance and Policy at WFA, while also co-chairing the IUCN WCPA Sustainable Finance Specialist Group. Her groundbreaking work in innovative finance has garnered prestigious recognition, including the UN Pathfinder Award, EcoLogic Awards, Greening the Future, and Mulago Foundation Fellowship.
With a strong background in law and commerce, Candice possesses extensive experience in areas such as protected and conserved area financing, environmental law, and policy-making on financial incentives. Her profound knowledge and global expertise make her an invaluable asset in numerous national and international committees focused on financing, resourcing, and area-based conservation. Notably, Candice's partnership with the Government of South Africa led to the introduction of the world's first effective biodiversity tax incentive within the South African protected areas network, earning her a Pathfinder Award Special Commendation for this pioneering global innovation.
Rupert Koopman
Rupert Koopman is a dedicated Conservation Manager at BotSocSA, where he tirelessly strives to foster inclusivity in botany and conservation for all South Africans. He actively engages with members from diverse backgrounds, involving them in meaningful conservation and citizen science initiatives. By seamlessly integrating these efforts, Rupert contributes towards the achievement of the Botanical Society's Conservation Strategy, aligned with the South African Plant Conservation Strategy's objective of safeguarding the nation's floral diversity. With unwavering optimism, he radiates hope for the preservation of South Africa's flora, while also recognising the substantial and imminent threats it faces.
For over a decade, Rupert's passion for the protection and enjoyment of our rich floral heritage has been unwavering. His profound love for plants and his genuine commitment to conservation have been evident throughout his career at CapeNature, SANBI, CREW, and Doug Jeffrey Consultants. Working collaboratively with diverse teams to conserve natural areas and oversee stewardship has always been a highlight for him. Rupert firmly believes that land-use should not be a binary choice between conservation and development, but rather a harmonious approach that allows nature to thrive alongside human progress. Above all, making a tangible difference and working diligently within a broad team to establish regulations and take action are the aspects of his work that he finds most fulfilling.
Tlou Masehela
Dr. Tlou Masehela is a distinguished scientist employed at the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), where he spearheads the impactful work centred on monitoring and reporting the effects of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) on biodiversity. Based at the breathtaking Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden in Cape Town, Dr. Masehela brings a wealth of expertise in diverse research areas, including pollinator deficit assessments, crop pollination, honey bee forage resources, apicultural practices, and plant ecology. Alongside his pivotal role at SANBI, he serves on the Western Cape Bee Industry Association and the GMO advisory committee, established under the GMO Act: Act No 15 of 1997.
Dr. Masehela contributes significantly to Environmental (ecological) Risk Assessments for GMOs, actively participating in the development and review of protocols and legislative frameworks that prioritise the management and monitoring of GMO impacts on the environment. In recognition of his remarkable contributions to bee forage research, the South African Bee Industry Association (SABIO) presented Dr. Masehela with a prestigious award in 2014. Passionate about education, he frequently engages in outreach programs that focus on pollinators, such as honey bees, emphasising their crucial role in food production and advocating for their conservation along with their dependent resources and habitats. Dr. Masehela's broad interests encompass ecosystem services, conservation biology, invasive alien species, food security, biodiversity management, biotechnology, and long-term monitoring.
Mbali Nwoko
Mbali Nwoko, the CEO of Green Terrace, embodies the future of female leadership and sustainability. With a remarkable track record as a Multi-Award Winning Farmer, Entrepreneur, Columnist, Agri Blogger, and Podcaster, she stands as a living testament to the potential within the industry. Introduced to the world of farming by a friend, Mbali uncovered a wealth of opportunities in the agricultural sector. Fueled by her entrepreneurial spirit, she embarked on an extensive research journey that led to the establishment of Green Terrace in 2016. Starting with a mere 2 hectares of leased farmland, she cultivated her first crop of Swiss chard. Within months, her enterprise flourished, expanding to encompass 14 hectares (8 hectares arable) and diversifying into green peppers, baby marrows, and green beans.
Over the years, Mbali's passion for agriculture has grown exponentially, propelling her to global platforms where she shares invaluable insights and perspectives on farming and the agricultural industry. She extends her impact by providing mentorship to fellow farmers and aspiring individuals through various social media platforms. Her unwavering dedication to the agricultural field has solidified her reputation as a modern-day farmer, continuously empowering, educating, and inspiring others. Among her notable accolades are the BBQ New Entrepreneur Award 2020 and recognition as one of the Top 100 Influential Young South Africans in 2020.
David Ryan
David Ryan is a wildlife enthusiast, trustee of the Wildlife ACT, and the visionary behind Rhino Africa. In 2004, he embarked on a journey that started at his kitchen table, merging his passions for Africa, conservation, photography, and travel with his business acumen. Today, Rhino Africa stands as the foremost authority on luxury travel in Africa, continually pushing boundaries and embracing innovation. David's unwavering dedication to conservation, particularly for the endangered rhino, and his commitment to rural education in South Africa, drive his motivation. Through the success of Rhino Africa, he not only supports causes close to his heart but also showcases Africa's awe-inspiring people, wildlife, and landscapes to the world.
David's boundless energy is matched only by his knack for making things happen. A pioneering entrepreneur with an unyielding love for Africa's wildlife, he is often found in the company of his African Grey parrot, reminiscent of Dr. Dolittle's tales. Before establishing Rhino Africa, David honed his skills and gained invaluable experience in the industry. Photography and travel are among his cherished interests, and his extensive journeys across Africa have yielded a treasure trove of captivating images that grace the Rhino Africa website.
Ian Michler
Ian Michler is a remarkable figure with a multifaceted career dedicated to Africa's wilderness and conservation. For nearly three decades, he has immersed himself in the continent, working as a safari operator, specialist wilderness guide, consultant, and environmental photojournalist. Throughout his journey, Ian has captured the attention of readers worldwide through his thought-provoking feature articles, captivating diaries, and insightful blogs, shedding light on Africa's most pressing conservation challenges, particularly predator breeding and trophy hunting. His expertise in ecotourism consulting extends to both the private and government sectors, while his conservation efforts find expression through The Conservation Action Trust.
Ian's contributions to the field have earned him a well-deserved membership in the esteemed International League of Conservation Writers. Moreover, he is the esteemed author of seven captivating natural history and travel books that delve into the wonders of various African countries. As a co-founder and owner of Invent Africa Safaris, a specialist safari company offering extraordinary trips to 15 countries across the continent, and as a director of Eden to Addo, a highly successful regional corridor conservation initiative, Ian continues to spearhead transformative endeavours.
As the sun rises over the diverse landscapes of South Africa, the brilliance of these Biodiversity Heroes shines ever brighter, illuminating the remarkable achievements of individuals dedicated to the cause of biodiversity preservation. From urban activists to marine conservationists, species advocates to agricultural innovators, and pollinator enthusiasts to biodiversity warriors, their unwavering dedication and impactful contributions have set an awe-inspiring precedent for all.
This article not only serves as a celebration of these Biodiversity Heroes’ achievements but also as a rallying cry to each and every one of us. It is a call to action, urging us to recognise the urgent need to protect and preserve the rich tapestry of life that surrounds us. By embracing their passion, commitment, and innovation, we too can become catalysts for change, forging a sustainable future where biodiversity thrives.
Is anyone missing from our list? Pop us an email at hello@treeshake.com to let us know, so that we can continue celebrating the top biodiversity heroes.
CONSERVATION CHAMPIONS: 25 BIODIVERSITY ORGANISATIONS
Amidst the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ecosystems of South Africa lies a treasure trove of biodiversity, teeming with unique species found nowhere else on Earth. From the rugged mountains to the sprawling savannas, South Africa's natural heritage captivates the hearts and minds of conservationists worldwide. In an inspiring display of dedication, the country is home to an array of exceptional organisations, steadfastly working towards the preservation of this rich biodiversity.
Amidst the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ecosystems of South Africa lies a treasure trove of biodiversity, teeming with unique species found nowhere else on Earth. From the rugged mountains to the sprawling savannas, South Africa's natural heritage captivates the hearts and minds of conservationists worldwide. In an inspiring display of dedication, the country is home to an array of exceptional organisations, steadfastly working towards the preservation of this rich biodiversity.
In response, a collective of remarkable organisations has emerged, 25 of which we celebrate in this article, spanning the urban, marine, species, agricultural, and pollinator biodiversity sectors. Their tireless efforts combine scientific expertise, community engagement, and innovative solutions to safeguard South Africa's natural heritage for generations to come.
South Africa boasts an astonishing wealth of biodiversity, with approximately 10% of the world's known plant species, 7% of its reptile, bird, and mammal species, and 15% of the world’s marine species residing within its borders. The country's diverse ecosystems encompass everything from iconic wildlife, such as the majestic African elephant and elusive black rhino, to delicate floral marvels like the fynbos and succulent Karoo. However, this natural wonderland faces numerous challenges, including habitat loss, pollution, and the impact of climate change.
By supporting these organisations, we can all play a part in protecting the diverse tapestry of life that makes South Africa truly exceptional. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, together, we can make a difference, ensuring that South Africa's biodiversity continues to flourish, providing a haven for both wildlife and humanity. Let us celebrate the remarkable achievements of these organisations and rally behind them, as custodians of our natural heritage, in the pursuit of a sustainable future for all.
URBAN BIODIVERSITY
Urban biodiversity encompasses the diverse range of living organisms, including their genetic diversity, and the multiplicity of habitats found in and around densely populated areas. Its conservation is crucial for the maintenance of vital ecosystem services that benefit human communities. The role of cities in conserving biodiversity is critical, not only for preservation purposes but also because the ecosystem services provided by biodiversity and vegetation are necessary for the well-being of urban residents. Urban biodiversity offers a range of benefits to the environment, including absorbing and dispersing noise pollution, mitigating the heat island effect, summoning more biodiversity, and absorbing air pollutants. As urbanisation continues to expand, it is imperative to restore such biodiversity, as it is a fundamental necessity for cities to flourish and achieve sustainability in environmental, social, and economic domains.
UrbanBetter
UrbanBetter is a collaborative learning and advocacy platform that mobilises individuals, communities, and organisations to create healthy, sustainable urban environments. This Africa-led global movement envisions every citizen as a custodian of planetary health with the ability to aspire, inspire and work together for access to healthy and sustainable choices.
UrbanBetter promotes shared learning of promising urban health practices and facilitates knowledge exchange to equip change agents with the necessary tools. Their impactful blogs and social media campaigns raise awareness of the importance of urban environments for health and activate youth as key drivers of positive change for healthy and sustainable cities. With their dedication and passion for creating better urban environments, UrbanBetter is transforming the way people view and interact with their cities.
Young Urbanists South Africa
Young Urbanists is a non-profit organisation that seeks to empower young people to actively participate in the design of their cities, with the aim of creating more inclusive public spaces. The community targets students and early career professionals who are interested in their city and want to play a more active role in shaping its future. Young Urbanists achieves its objectives through social, educational, and advocacy events, which bring together individuals with a passion for cities.
The organisation's ultimate goal is to address the shortcomings of apartheid spatial planning, which marginalised the majority of the population from urban opportunities, and continues to manifest today through car-centric urban planning. Roland Postma, the coordinator of Young Urbanists South Africa, highlights the unique opportunity presented by city and public space design to tackle crises related to health, transportation, access to economic opportunities, and environmental sustainability, including climate change and biodiversity loss. By mobilising the next generation of urban leaders, Young Urbanists is building a brighter and more equitable future for cities.
Our Future Cities
In the pursuit of better cities tomorrow, Our Future Cities emerges as an influential urbanism practice, consultancy, and think tank. Guided by a compelling manifesto, this visionary organisation, led by esteemed urbanist and CEO Rashiq Fataar, brings together diverse experts from various disciplines, united by their shared passion for addressing urban challenges. They are the vanguards shaping the future of cities, collaborating with governments, businesses, knowledge institutions, and communities to effect profound and lasting change.
Embedded within their ethos is the invaluable element of foresight, ensuring they remain at the forefront of innovation. Their holistic approach transcends disciplines, dimensions, and scales, recognising that profound ideas and novel solutions must intertwine seamlessly. Undeterred by transient buzzwords and fads, they instead commit themselves to progress through a harmonious blend of incremental steps and transformative leaps. Ultimately, they strive to transform spaces, systems, and policies, cognisant that the future of our planet is inextricably linked to the future of our cities and towns. Their unwavering pursuit? Sustainable, equitable cities that are not only functional, but also exhilarating and cherished by their inhabitants.
Urban Harvest
Urban Harvest is a trailblazing provider of professional food gardening services, offering a comprehensive range of expertise from design to harvest. Their unwavering commitment lies in crafting stunning, ecologically vibrant spaces that not only enrich the soil and plants but also nurture people's well-being. With a remarkable legacy since their establishment in 2006, Urban Harvest has spearheaded the edible garden service movement in South Africa. They take immense pride in having installed and maintained over 500 extraordinary and exceptionally fruitful food gardens, extending their benefits to individuals from diverse backgrounds.
At Urban Harvest, each garden holds a special place in their heart, ensuring meticulous design and utilising only the finest resources available. Their dedicated team possesses an acute eye for detail and maintains constant communication to ensure clients' utmost satisfaction throughout the garden's progression, always accompanied by a warm smile. Believing in the transformative power of collaborative efforts between humans and nature, Urban Harvest strives to foster abundant supplies of healthy, organic, and locally grown food in communities. By rekindling traditional values and cultivating a profound reverence for the Earth, they actively contribute to restoring a harmonious balance in people's lives.
The Green Building Council of South Africa
The Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) is an organisation dedicated to transforming the built environment for the betterment of both people and the planet. Their passionate and collaborative approach brings together a membership community across the commercial, residential and public sectors to ensure environmentally sustainable building practices. With a focus on driving competitive, viable and professional membership advantages, the GBCSA's affiliations provide access to a community of experts both locally and internationally.
As a proud member of the World Green Building Council, they create a platform for advocacy, training and certification. The GBCSA's team of industry experts is dedicated to supporting its growing membership platform with innovative solutions and tools. Together, they strive to drive influence, change and opportunity through collaboration. Located in Observatory at Black River Park, Cape Town, the GBCSA's office showcases their commitment to the cause with its 4-star Interiors rating, which was made possible with the support of the Cape Town Office Sponsors.
MARINE BIODIVERSITY
Marine biodiversity involves the vast array of plant and animal life inhabiting the ocean, from minuscule microorganisms to majestic whales and intricate coral reefs. It plays a crucial role in sustaining our planet's economic, social, and environmental welfare, making it an essential component of sustainable development. With over 90% of the world's habitable space located in the ocean, it is a critical repository of biodiversity, housing an estimated 250,000 known species with countless others yet to be discovered. The ocean provides half of the Earth's oxygen and absorbs 26% of anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions, making it and the life therein an essential component of a healthy, functioning planet.
Lewis Pugh Foundation
The Lewis Pugh Foundation takes decisive action to safeguard the oceans, working towards a sustainable future. The foundation's campaigns are results-oriented, aimed at making a tangible difference. By bringing together NGOs, governments, scientific institutions, and citizens from all over the world, the foundation creates a united front to achieve a common goal. To date, the foundation has helped to protect over 2.2 million km² of ocean.
The Foundation's work is driven by the belief that the oceans have value in and of themselves, and that protecting them from human abuse and exploitation is essential for the well-being of all life on Earth. With Lewis Pugh's unique brand of environmental diplomacy, the Foundation is working towards a goal of protecting 30% of the world's oceans by 2030.
SANCCOB
SANCCOB, a registered non-profit organisation, has been rescuing and rehabilitating ill, injured, abandoned and oiled seabirds, especially endangered species like the African penguin, since 1968. With a mission to reverse the decline of seabird populations, the organisation works closely with colony managers to identify birds in need of care in the wild and bring them to one of their two centres in South Africa. SANCCOB's services include rescue, rehabilitation, chick rearing, oiled wildlife, education, training and research.
The organisation was founded by Althea Louise Burman Westphal, who set up a temporary station at her home in Claremont to treat oiled penguins in the late 1960s. Althea's efforts in seabird conservation continued for decades, and she was eventually made Honorary Life President. SANCCOB achieved its first milestone in December 1969, when the collection of penguin eggs on the islands was banned at a conference in the Kruger National Park. Today, SANCCOB continues to make a significant impact on the conservation of seabirds in South Africa and beyond.
Sustainable Seas Trust
The Sustainable Seas Trust (SST) is a science-based Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) that aims to safeguard Africa's marine resources for the benefit of its inhabitants. By supporting and connecting communities through research, education, and enterprise development, SST raises awareness about the pressing issues of ocean conservation and plastic pollution across the continent.
SST fosters networks to promote the sharing of information and support focused on waste management, and through its events and projects like the African Marine Waste Network, Hope Spots, and Marine Education, it brings together like-minded individuals to address plastic waste management in Africa. SST envisions clean, healthy, and sustainable seas with thriving communities living alongside them. Their mission centres around cultivating a diverse network of stakeholders in the conservation and waste-management sectors, facilitating the adoption of best practices to protect Africa's seas and proactively manage waste at its source—land.
Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation
Founded in 2018 by the Two Oceans Aquarium, the Foundation is a registered non-profit and public benefit organisation dedicated to nurturing a profound connection with and safeguarding our precious ocean and natural world. The Foundation is unwavering in its pursuit of excellence and actively promotes conservation, awareness, research, and education. By offering exceptional marine education programmes meticulously aligned with curricula, the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation empowers adults to participate in initiatives that promote ocean sustainability.
At the forefront of conservation, the Foundation plays a pivotal role in protecting five of the seven marine sea turtle species. It collaborates extensively on initiatives concerning marine animal welfare and conducts groundbreaking research projects in partnership with esteemed tertiary institutions and conservation organisations. Guided by an ambitious vision, the Foundation seeks to unite humanity with the boundless wonders of the ocean. Through flourishing partnerships, the Foundation's impact extends far beyond Cape Town's V&A Waterfront, reaching along the extensive coastline of South Africa.
SOSF Shark Education Centre
The Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Education Centre is an exceptional destination connecting people to the wonders of the ocean through immersive educational programmes centred around sharks and local marine ecosystems. Nestled on the stunning shores of False Bay in Cape Town, South Africa, this remarkable centre offers an unparalleled experience, overlooking the vast ocean and situated within the remarkable Dalebrook Marine Protected Area. By blending education and enjoyment, the centre captures the hearts and minds of children and adults alike, engaging all their senses through state-of-the-art exhibits carefully curated for playful exploration and learning.
With a primary focus on sharks, the centre illuminates their diversity, anatomy, habitats, and vital role in the marine ecosystem. Moreover, it unveils the captivating marvels of the unique marine life thriving in and around False Bay, employing sharks as gateways to a broader understanding of our oceans. Welcoming school groups, outreach events, holiday clubs, and marine awareness camps, the centre also invites the general public to discover its captivating displays. Their ultimate aim is to disseminate marine education and conservation messages far and wide, inspiring a genuine commitment to the well-being of sharks and their oceanic homes.
SPECIES BIODIVERSITY
The Earth is home to an incredible array of living organisms, encompassing plants, animals, fungi, and bacteria, better known as species biodiversity. While scientists estimate that there are approximately 8.7 million different species in existence, only 1.2 million have been identified and studied thus far, with insects comprising the majority of these known species. In a thriving ecosystem, a diverse and balanced array of species collaborates to sustain and preserve the natural order. Each species relies on others, directly or indirectly, within an ecosystem, emphasising the importance of preserving high species diversity to foster a more efficient, productive, and sustainable ecological equilibrium.
World Animal Protection
World Animal Protection (WAP) is a renowned organisation committed to combating animal cruelty and alleviating suffering. Throughout its remarkable journey, the organisation has flourished in both size and influence, elevating the prominence of animal welfare worldwide. With a mission to forge a better world for animals, WAP remains at the forefront of change. Their endeavours span various spheres from advocating for animals to occupy a prominent position on the global agenda to inspiring individuals to effect positive transformations in animals' lives.
At WAP, every campaign, decision, and aspiration centres on the animal's story. By fostering widespread comprehension of animals' perspectives, the organisation ensures their wellbeing becomes the focal point. From liberating farmed animals from cruel confinement systems to safeguarding wild animals' freedom, their dedication yields tangible results. Notably, through the mobilisation of a vibrant global network, WAP has successfully influenced major brands, such as Expedia and Trip Advisor to discontinue the sale of wildlife experiences that involve cruelty. Moreover, by empowering people to champion animal protection, the organisation cultivates a groundswell of advocates tirelessly striving to eradicate animal cruelty. Ultimately, WAP envisions a world where the wellbeing of all animals is safeguarded through the collective efforts of compassionate individuals.
Table Mountain Fund
The Table Mountain Fund (TMF) is an esteemed organisation dedicated to safeguarding and reviving the unspoiled splendour of Table Mountain and the diverse biodiversity found within the magnificent Cape Floral Kingdom. Spearheaded by Sir Edmund Hillary, this establishment serves as a capital Conservation Trust Fund, channelling resources towards the development and financing of projects aimed at preserving and restoring the renowned natural heritage of the Cape, the Fynbos.
Since its inception, The TMF has invested a staggering R100 million in over 350 projects. These projects encompass a broad spectrum of conservation efforts, ranging from purchasing vital conservation land and promoting sustainable land management practices to financing applied research and supporting civil society in implementing innovative conservation initiatives in high-value conservation areas. The Table Mountain Fund is also involved in several programmes that are designed to achieve specific conservation goals, namely the Pride Programme, the Prosperity Programme, the Care Programme, and the Fynbos Forever Programme.
SANBI
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is an esteemed institution that spearheads South Africa's journey towards sustainable development. SANBI serves as a gateway to invaluable biodiversity data, while also generating knowledge and information critical to our understanding of nature. With a strong focus on capacity building, SANBI empowers individuals and communities through insightful training initiatives and offers expert policy advice, strategically guiding decision-making processes.
SANBI's contributions extend far beyond academia. By showcasing and conserving biodiversity within its renowned national botanical and zoological gardens, SANBI cultivates a profound appreciation for the natural world. Moreover, the institute actively engages in ecosystem restoration and rehabilitation efforts, nurturing the revival of delicate ecosystems. Recognised internationally as a beacon of excellence, SANBI serves as a vital link connecting science, knowledge, policy, and implementation. Through its unwavering dedication, SANBI endeavours to enhance the understanding, management, conservation, and protection of our biological resources.
Endangered Wildlife Trust
The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) is a renowned non-profit dedicated to safeguarding the natural heritage of southern and East Africa. Guided by its commitment to protect threatened species and ecosystems, the organisation focuses on three fundamental strategic imperatives: saving species, conserving habitats, and benefiting people. These overarching pillars of conservation impact form the foundation for the EWT's work, bolstered by six high-level goals. Five of these goals directly contribute to the organisation's conservation efforts, while the sixth goal highlights its leadership role within the broader conservation sector.
With a diverse team spread across southern and East Africa, the EWT collaborates with businesses, communities, and government entities. Recognised for its expertise in conservation research, community engagement, livelihood support, and training, the organisation employs innovative approaches to minimise human-wildlife conflict, monitor endangered species, and safeguard habitats for both animals and people. The EWT envisions a healthy planet and an equitable world that values and sustains the diversity of all life, working tirelessly towards this vision as it strives to conserve threatened species and ecosystems in southern and East Africa.
HERD Trust
HERD (Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development) Trust emerged in 2021 as the culmination of an extraordinary 24 year journey, resulting in the union of the Jabulani herd, HERD Homestead operations, and the HERD Orphanage under a single umbrella name. This consolidation has enabled the organisation to access public funding, thereby ensuring the holistic well-being of their cherished elephant companions. Rooted in a heartfelt response to the profound ramifications of human-elephant conflict, the HERD Orphanage materialised in 2019 as a refuge for a mounting number of vulnerable elephant calves, providing them both rehabilitation and an embrace from an accepting, pre-existing herd.
Today, the Jabulani herd stands as a harmonious family of sixteen majestic elephants, encompassing eleven resilient orphans and five remarkable individuals birthed within the herd over a decade ago. The establishment of Jabulani Lodge back in 2004 has laid the foundation for sustaining the herd, with proceeds from tourism lending invaluable support to the compassionate care and meticulous stewardship of these rescued elephants. Committed to active engagement within local communities, HERD Trust endeavours to empower their immediate neighbours through education and developmental opportunities, fostering a shared commitment to safeguarding these magnificent creatures. Additionally, HERD fosters a vibrant online community, uniting a global audience in a collective pursuit of knowledge about elephants and crucial conservation endeavours.
AGRICULTURAL BIODIVERSITY
Agricultural biodiversity encompasses all aspects of biological diversity essential to food and agriculture, including those found in agro-ecosystems. It pertains to the genetic, species, and ecosystem levels of variability among animals, plants, and micro-organisms that play critical roles in sustaining agro-ecosystem functions, structures, and processes. Agricultural biodiversity results from the interplay among genetic resources, environmental conditions, and farmers' management practices, reflecting both natural selection and human ingenuity honed over generations. Conserving diverse crop varieties, recognising the detrimental effects of monoculture farming, and valuing traditional agricultural methods can help maintain agricultural biodiversity, which underpins sustainable food systems and supports human well-being.
African Centre for Biodiversity
The African Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) is committed to advancing food sovereignty and agroecology across Africa. Focused on biosafety, seed systems, and agricultural biodiversity, the ACB aims to combat inequalities and counter the corporate-industrial influence pervasive in the continent's food and agriculture systems. Recognised for its resolute opposition to the forced implementation of the Green Revolution in Africa, the ACB persistently challenges the institutional structures driving this agenda at national and regional levels.
Additionally, the ACB collaborates with partners to foster understanding and facilitate transitions to agroecological farming practices. This collaborative approach offers an alternative to the dominance of corporate interests in African seed and food systems. Through horizon scanning, research and analysis, communications, information sharing, capacity building, and advocacy, the ACB empowers civil society, farmers' organisations, women, and youth across Africa to actively engage in advocacy spaces. As a result, the ACB's efforts influence public and private discourse, leading to more inclusive, democratic, and responsive agricultural policies and implementation strategies. Ultimately, this contributes to the preservation and utilisation of agricultural biodiversity, enhancing the livelihoods and well-being of smallholder farmers throughout Africa.
Abalimi Bezekhaya
Abalimi Bezekhaya emerged as a voluntary association in 1982, gaining formal constitution in 2002, and is now led by an esteemed Management Board. With a dedicated team of sixteen passionate staff members and volunteers, Abalimi Bezekhaya works tirelessly to provide invaluable assistance to local farmers. Their comprehensive support encompasses training, affordable resources, accessible infrastructure, market access, and organisational development. Their primary objective is twofold: combating poverty by promoting sustainable, organic food production within homes and community gardens, and empowering farmers with production planning, soil infrastructure, harvest coordination, seed and seedling access, vegetable transportation, and financial services crucial for running microfarms.
Guided by a visionary outlook, Abalimi Bezekhaya seeks to empower individuals and groups from underprivileged communities in Cape Town. By fostering an understanding of the vital connection between survival, health, and environmental improvement, the organisation instils confidence, enabling the initiation, replication, and long-term sustenance of food cultivation and greening endeavours. These grassroots initiatives serve as catalysts for broader development, inspiring the formation of associations and networks that actively advocate for resources and support in both rural and urban domains.
SAOSO
The South African Organic Sector Organisation (SAOSO) thrives as a non-profit organisation devoted to fostering unity and expansion within South Africa's organic agriculture sector. Its paramount objective revolves around bringing together farmers, producers, retailers, and consumers of organic products, with a shared vision of safeguarding the future of food freedom and the natural ecology of South Africa. As a proud member of IFOAM Organics International, SAOSO is guided by four cardinal principles of organic farming: health, fairness, ecology, and care.
Recognising the imperatives of food sovereignty and sustainable development, SAOSO champions organic production practices, proven to be highly effective amidst climate change and drought. This holistic approach resonates particularly well with the vast majority of farmers who conscientiously choose ecologically-sound methods. By supporting local farmers, SAOSO contributes to the transformation of South Africa's economy, fostering a vibrant agricultural sector that paves the way for social reform and benefits all. Committed to its mandate, SAOSO actively fosters the organic sector's growth through comprehensive training programmes and value chain activities. In partnership with PGS SA, SAOSO spearheads a grassroots movement of organic farmers nationwide, nurturing food sovereignty through province-level partnerships and programmes.
PISA
PISA is an organisation driven by its unwavering dedication to propagate the principles of permaculture and regenerative agriculture in South Africa. The organisation's primary objective is to impart knowledge on permaculture design, which is essential in creating sustainable, productive, and natural systems. PISA's founding members are PRI accredited, which reinforces their commitment to the permaculture research community. PISA strives to bring the best minds in permaculture, regenerative agriculture, and other related fields from around the globe to South Africa. The organisation offers a range of courses and events featuring international experts who share their knowledge and experience with participants.
Moreover, PISA operates a permaculture/regenerative agriculture hub in East London and is keen to expand its reach to other provinces. In addition to training, PISA provides consultation services for permaculture design and earthworks. The organisation's vision and mission are to educate, consult, and offer courses related to permaculture and regenerative agriculture across South Africa. PISA's values are grounded in earth care, people care, and fair share, which are central to the organisation's ethics and guide all its activities.
Soil Scopes
SoilScopes is an agricultural-centric organisation committed to empowering farmers to prioritise soil health through innovative regenerative practices. Their mission is to restore a more natural system that yields higher-quality crops at reduced costs, thus enabling farmers to reclaim their lands' fertility. By embracing ecologically-based approaches and fostering better profit margins, SoilScopes minimises reliance on inorganic fertilisers, herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides. They believe in embracing the inherent system designed by nature for optimal plant growth while eliminating harmful and outdated practices from modern agriculture.
SoilScopes harnesses the power of the microbial world and provides invaluable insights into the management of living soil. Leveraging advanced microscope assessment tools, SoilScopes enables farmers to comprehend the intricate relationships between microbes, plants, and achieve bountiful yields. With the aid of microscope analysis, SoilScopes unravels the true drivers of crop success or failure, helping farmers make informed decisions. By granting people access to invaluable knowledge about their soil's microorganisms and conducting microbial tests, SoilScopes empowers farmers to unlock the full potential of their land.
POLLINATOR BIODIVERSITY
Pollinator biodiversity is crucial for the maintenance and promotion of biodiversity, and ultimately for sustaining life on Earth. With over 20,000 pollinating bee species and numerous other insect and vertebrate pollinators such as butterflies, beetles, bats, and so forth, pollination provides benefits that extend beyond the natural world. Their services also have a significant impact on human society, improving food security and livelihoods. In fact, “87.5% of wild plants globally (about 308,000 species) depend, at least in part, on animal pollination for fertilisation. While about 40% of global agricultural production comes from crops that depend on insect labour.”
Honey Bee Heroes
HoneyBee Heroes is an inspiring sanctuary for honeybees and education centre nestled in the heart of the Overberg region. Spearheaded by Chris Oosthuizen in early 2020, HoneyBee Heroes was established with a noble purpose: to protect the South African Capensis honeybee, support small-scale beekeepers, and raise awareness about sustainable food choices among the people of South Africa. With a steadfast commitment, HoneyBee Heroes strives to create accessible and lasting opportunities for South Africans to conserve and interact with their natural environment. At the core of their mission lies an unwavering dedication to educate and preserve South Africa's unique Cape honeybee.
Additionally, HoneyBee Heroes has partnered with Wellness Warehouse, a leading retailer of natural health and wellness products, embarking on an incredible journey together. Starting from February 2022, every jar of honey displayed on the shelves of Wellness Warehouse stores and their online emporium will bear HoneyBee Heroes' emblem, ensuring its ethical and sustainable origins within South Africa. Additionally, customers will discover a wealth of knowledge about South Africa's extraordinary honeybees, highlighting the urgent need for collective action in supporting local beekeepers and reversing the decline of these vital pollinators.
LepSoc Africa
The Lepidopterists' Society of Africa (LepSoc Africa) is a passionate group of enthusiasts committed to the preservation and research of butterflies and moths in the Afrotropical region. The society acts as a platform for individuals or groups interested in this field, disseminating information, publishing research, and coordinating awareness-raising activities for these fascinating creatures. LepSoc Africa's ultimate goal is to advance the study and conservation of Afrotropical butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera). Its publication portfolio includes peer-reviewed scientific articles as well as less technical pieces on news and events related to the subject.
LepSoc’s geographic focus is the Afrotropical zone, which includes sub-Saharan Africa and islands such as Seychelles and Madagascar. With over 4,500 species of butterfly and more than 50,000 moths, this region boasts the world's second richest concentration of these insects, surpassed only by South America. LepSoc Africa promotes interaction among its members and lepidopterists worldwide, collaborating with conservation officials and engaging with the public wherever possible. While research remains a key objective, the society increasingly prioritises conservation efforts, recognising the crucial role of preserving these delicate and beautiful species for future generations.
Bats Without Borders
Established in 2013, Bats without Borders is a non-governmental organisation founded by Rachael Cooper-Bohannon, with the aim of preserving bats, biodiversity and healthy ecosystems in the ever-changing southern African landscape. The organisation is dedicated to achieving this mission by conducting and supporting applied research that informs targeted conservation action, strengthening local capacity, and promoting a positive attitude towards bats through public engagement. Their commitments include protecting bat diversity and habitats, restoring important natural habitats through evidence-based conservation action, engaging ecologists, researchers and conservationists across Africa, inspiring people in southern Africa to appreciate and love bats, and empowering people to create more sustainable livelihood strategies.
Bats without Borders is bursting with potential in 2023 as they focus on their new Conservation Internship programme, working with communities near important bat sites, and capacity strengthening activities to support bat conservation across southern Africa. With their collaborative, evidence-based and ethical approach, the organisation is committed to advocating for policy change with key stakeholders and international partners to ensure the protection and conservation of southern Africa's natural heritage.
Birdlife South Africa
BirdLife South Africa, the only dedicated bird-conservation organisation in South Africa, is committed to the preservation and welfare of avian life across the country. Proudly affiliated with BirdLife International, BirdLife South Africa envisions a harmonious coexistence between nature and humanity, fostering equitable and sustainable living conditions. With a mission firmly rooted in scientific principles, BirdLife South Africa employs a range of evidence-based initiatives to safeguard birds, their natural habitats, and overall biodiversity. By promoting responsible and fair utilisation of natural resources, as well as cultivating an appreciation for the wonders of the natural world, the organisation strives to create lasting conservation impact.
BirdLife South Africa is steadfast in its pursuit of several key objectives. These include the prevention of species extinctions, enhancement of the conservation status of bird populations, preservation and expansion of critical sites and habitats, and the promotion of ecological sustainability through the lens of avian biodiversity. By integrating bird conservation practices into local livelihoods, the organisation endeavours to effect positive change among communities. Embracing a multifaceted approach, BirdLife South Africa undertakes regional and landscape conservation initiatives, prioritises the well-being of seabirds, fosters scientific innovation, advocates for policies supportive of bird conservation, and empowers individuals to make a difference.
Green School South Africa
Green School South Africa is an educational institution that embraces a progressive, learner-centred approach to education, focusing on equipping young minds with the tools to flourish in a rapidly evolving world. Their educational philosophy, founded on meticulous research, aims to spark a lifelong love for learning and impart the skills essential for present and future success. This distinctive vision permeates every aspect of their institution, from their eco-conscious campus and sustainable procurement practices to their environmentally friendly habits and curriculum. As the third school to join the global Green School movement, Green School South Africa shares the overarching mission of educating for sustainability through community-integrated, entrepreneurial learning in a harmonious natural setting.
Recognising the distinctive challenges that lie ahead for future generations, Green School South Africa advocates the integration of sustainability principles into their learning, fostering leadership by example. Nestled amidst awe-inspiring mountains in the verdant Paarl-Franschhoek Valley, their campus adheres to the gold standard of green design and construction—the Living Building Challenge (LBC). This commitment to regenerative building practices extends beyond achieving a zero footprint, reviving endemic flora and enriching biodiversity while nurturing vegetable gardens, fruit forests, medicinal havens, and herbal corridors. Green School South Africa actively reconnects their students with the land and food through hands-on cultivation, caring, and harvesting experiences.
As our rapidly evolving world faces the daunting challenges of habitat destruction, climate change, and species loss, a glimmer of hope emerges through the unwavering dedication of numerous biodiversity organisations. From the concrete jungles of urban landscapes to the boundless depths of marine ecosystems, these champions of nature tirelessly work to protect and restore the intricate web of life that sustains us all. Their efforts span across sectors, encompassing the preservation of species, the sustainable practices in agriculture, and the vital role of pollinators.
By weaving together their collective wisdom, scientific expertise, and community engagement, these organisations stand as beacons of inspiration, illuminating a path toward a harmonious future where nature thrives. Through collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the preservation of biodiversity, they embody the profound potential within each of us to safeguard the irreplaceable beauty and diversity of our planet. Together, we have the power to shape a world that cherishes and protects all life, ensuring a vibrant and resilient future for generations to come.
Is anyone missing from our list? Pop us an email at hello@treeshake.com to let us know, so that we can continue celebrating South Africa’s top biodiversity organisations.
50 South African Organisations Creating a Greener Tomorrow
As the world moves towards a future filled with unknowns, the importance of environmental protection becomes increasingly apparent. In South Africa, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife, the need for environmental preservation is especially crucial. Read more about the numerous organisations in the country dedicated to making a difference and securing a greener tomorrow.
As the world moves towards a future filled with unknowns, the importance of environmental protection becomes increasingly apparent. In South Africa, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife, the need for environmental preservation is especially crucial. Fortunately, there are numerous organisations in the country that are dedicated to making a difference and securing a greener tomorrow.
These organisations are tackling various issues, ranging from pollution and climate change to habitat destruction and the conservation of natural resources. With their tireless efforts, they are setting an example for the rest of the world on how to approach environmental protection. Their work is a testament to the power of collective action and how small steps can lead to significant change. In this article, we celebrate South Africa's top environmental organisations and their contributions to creating a sustainable future.
Food & Trees for Africa
Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA) is a prominent non-profit organisation in South Africa that addresses food security, environmental sustainability, and greening. Since 1990, they have been actively running a diverse range of programmes, which aim to enhance the lives of South Africans while making the planet healthier. With a commitment to transparency, accountability, and efficiency, FTFA runs their non-profit like a social enterprise. This approach has enabled them to become one of the top social development organisations on the continent.
FTFA's thirty years of experience have provided them with a deep understanding of what it takes to achieve real, long-term sustainability that positively impacts the lives of all South Africans. Their dedication to innovation in the space and running their non-profit like a business have allowed them to make a significant impact on food security and environmental sustainability in South Africa.
Ecologi
Ecologi was founded by a group of passionate environmentalists in Bristol, UK, who recognised the need for more meaningful ways to address the looming climate crisis. The idea behind Ecologi was born when Elliot, one of the founders, pondered the impact of his daily coffee purchase on the environment. He realised that even small contributions from billions of people could make a significant difference in reducing global emissions.
Through Ecologi, individuals can set eco goals and fund climate projects that are directly reflected on their profile. The platform's success is measured by the positive impact it creates, and 80% of the funds go towards planet-saving projects, including transaction fees. The remaining amount covers costs such as attracting new subscribers, staff, and licenses. By compensating for their carbon footprint, Ecologi users can be part of the solution to the climate crisis.
Earthlife Africa
Earthlife Africa, established in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 1988, is a non-profit organisation that champions the cause of a better life for all without compromising the environment or exploiting other people. Their vision is to create a society that operates within the ecological boundaries of sustainable development, with a just distribution of resources for all, reverence for all living beings, and an end to social, economic, and environmental exploitation.
The organisation's mission is to motivate and support individuals, businesses, and industries to reduce pollution, minimise waste, and safeguard our natural resources. Through their initiatives, Earthlife Africa strives to promote sustainable living practices that contribute to a greener and healthier planet.
ACDI
The African Climate and Development Initiative (ACDI) was established in 2011 at the University of Cape Town to expand research and education on climate change in Africa. By 2018, ACDI had achieved formal institute status and earned the prestigious 'Centre of Excellence' designation for 'Climate and Development' from the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA).
As a leading climate change institute on the continent, ACDI collaborates with ARUA and other partners to promote inter- and transdisciplinary research and learning in the pursuit of sustainable development across Africa and beyond. With a focus on achieving impactful, climate-compatible and resilient development pathways, ACDI aims to expand its influence and shape the future of climate action on a global scale under the ARUA-CD banner.
African Climate Reality Project
The Africa Climate Reality Project (ACRP) is a Johannesburg-based organisation founded in 2014. Working alongside volunteer Regional Coordinators across East, South, Central, and West Africa, ACRP supports local initiatives and mobilises communities in the fight against climate change. The organisation collaborates with African climate leaders, NGOs, scientists, and governments to develop resources and tools for a network of active citizens spanning Algeria to South Africa, advocating for greater action and awareness of the issue.
As a member of The Climate Reality Project, founded by former US Vice President Al Gore, ACRP is a leading global organisation committed to tackling climate change. With over 5 million members worldwide and a network of trained Climate Reality Leaders, the Climate Reality Project empowers individuals and communities to confront the climate crisis and effect lasting change.
Black Girls Rising
Black Girls Rising, founded by Xoli Fuyani in 2020 in South Africa, is a non-profit organisation that aims to inspire and empower black girls from marginalised communities. Although it has been in existence since 2015 under Earth Child Project, the organisation's mission remains steadfast - to help young black girls rise beyond their circumstances to be in the forefront of climate action.
Through various programmes, Black Girls Rising creates a safe community for girls to amplify their voices and realise their dreams. Their work goes beyond traditional education and focuses on an embodied journey from girlhood to womanhood. With mindfulness, sharing circles, yoga, and other techniques, they help girls to listen to their bodies and balance their emotions. By owning their power and trusting their inner wisdom, these young women can be in a healthy relationship with all aspects of life.
Clean Creatives
Clean Creatives is a community of PR and ad professionals committed to building a safe climate future. With a focus on strategy, creativity, and leadership, Clean Creatives seeks to challenge the notion that fossil fuel clients are necessary for success in the industry. They firmly believe that the future of creativity is clean, and they strive to direct their skills and expertise towards clients that are doing good for the planet, rather than those that pose a threat to it.
As leaders in their industry, Clean Creatives understands the power of shaping public opinion and steering profits towards socially responsible clients. They are passionate about working with brands that prioritise purpose and making a positive impact on the world, and they refuse to work with fossil fuel companies, which they consider the biggest polluters on the planet.
Greenpop
Greenpop, a Cape Town-based registered non-profit organisation, has been working tirelessly since 2010 to restore ecosystems and promote environmental stewardship throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. With a focus on forest restoration, urban greening, food gardening, and environmental awareness projects, Greenpop has already planted over 200,000 trees and inspired more than 356,000 active citizens in South Africa, Zambia, Malawi, and Tanzania.
Greenpop was founded by Misha Teasdale, Lauren O'Donnell, and Jeremy Loops after a successful campaign to plant 1000 trees in Cape Town's marginalised communities during Arbour Month. The project garnered widespread attention and support, prompting the trio to establish an organisation dedicated to connecting people with the planet, each other, and themselves. Today, Greenpop continues to empower individuals and communities to become environmental stewards and champions sustainable urban greening and forest restoration initiatives across the region.
Regreening Africa
Regreening Africa is a visionary project that collaborates with diverse partners to promote the integration of trees into agricultural systems. The goal is to reverse land degradation across Africa and enhance the resilience of 500,000 households in sub-Saharan Africa. The project focuses on scaling up evergreen agriculture and implementing sustainable land management interventions such as tree planting and Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration, as well as utilising agroforestry techniques.
The project's second core objective involves working across eight countries to collect and apply evidence in multi-stakeholder engagement and policy processes, enabling strategic decision-making for scaling. Through technical advisory and engagement processes, Regreening Africa equips these countries with surveillance and analytical tools for monitoring and managing land degradation. Agroforestry techniques are central to the sustainable management of land and the maintenance of healthy landscapes, and Regreening Africa adapts these techniques to suit the needs of farmers in varying socio-ecological contexts.
African Climate Alliance
The African Climate Alliance is a grassroots movement that advocates for Afrocentric climate justice. Led by a dynamic team of young people, the organisation has established a vast network spanning across Africa. Despite its small size, the African Climate Alliance has already made significant strides in promoting climate education and organising peaceful protests.
Notably, the African Climate Alliance has become the first youth organisation to be involved in a climate-change court case in South African history. Through this landmark case, the organisation aimed to halt the construction of new coal infrastructure in the country. Beyond advocating for policy change, the African Climate Alliance has also taken practical steps towards climate adaptation by implementing solutions that promote food security and socio-environmental justice.
Oxpeckers
The Oxpeckers Center for Investigative Environmental Journalism is a pioneering investigative unit that is solely dedicated to covering environmental issues. They integrate traditional reporting techniques with modern tools such as data analysis and geo-mapping to expose eco-offences and track organised crime syndicates. As a non-profit organisation, Oxpeckers aims to enhance the quality and impact of environmental journalism globally.
Their mission is to provide a platform for investigative journalists who are passionate about environmental reporting. They also host geo-narrative platforms that utilise cutting-edge mapping techniques and forensic data tools to enhance their reportage. Oxpeckers shares investigative resources, specialist tools, and skills through manuals, workshops, and curated environmental research projects. Additionally, they publish their exclusive environmental investigations through legacy and new media, as well as eBooks and other channels.
Roving Reporters
Roving Reporters is dedicated to launching environmental writing careers through their training projects. Their primary focus is on training young journalists and environmental science graduates, providing them with the necessary skills to write impactful stories about key environmental, social, and justice issues for the media.
As an organisation, Roving Reporters believes in shedding light on the facts to empower decision-makers and ensure the greatest public good. By mentoring over 50 young journalists and environmental writers since 2011, they have successfully published stories on diverse media platforms, with a reach of up to 45,000 readers per published story. Their close to 100% track record in guiding first-time writers to publication in the media industry is a testament to their success.
Protect the West Coast
Protect the West Coast (PTWC) is a collective of passionate South Africans, comprising scientists, journalists, activists, and media experts. They work tirelessly as a not-for-profit organisation to ensure that mining activities on the West Coast of South Africa comply with fundamental environmental rights enshrined in the country's constitution and relevant mining statutes.
PTWC is dedicated to advocating for the correct oversight and fulfillment of authorisations granted to mining companies operating in the sensitive and bio-diverse region. PTWC utilises media advocacy, legal challenges, and community partnerships to carry out their watchdog role, ensuring that the communities of the West Coast are not impoverished in pursuit of short-term benefits touted by mining companies.
SANParks Honorary Rangers
The SANParks Honorary Rangers boast of a long and illustrious history, with its first volunteers dating back to 1902. These volunteers, who initially operated in the Kruger National Park, provided much-needed support to the full-time rangers. It was only in 1964 that the organisation was formally established, while the Association of Honorary Rangers was created in 1987 with 301 members. Today, the group has over 2,000 volunteers spread across 31 regions and 19 national parks in South Africa.
Their vision is to become a world-class volunteer organisation and a critical partner to the South African National Parks. To achieve this, the SANParks Honorary Rangers aim to support the development, management, and promotion of sustainable national parks that highlight the country's biodiversity and heritage assets through innovation and best practices. They strive to ensure that their efforts benefit current and future generations in a just and equitable manner.
I am Water Foundation
The I Am Water Foundation is a community of ocean enthusiasts dedicated to protecting our planet's oceans. Each member has a unique story to tell about why they are passionate about this cause. Despite the oceans dividing our world's continents, they unite us in a shared responsibility to protect them.
Since 2010, the foundation has been providing opportunities for people around the world to experience the beauty of the underwater world and understand the importance of ocean conservation. By building emotional connections to the aquatic environment and promoting healthy ocean behaviours, I Am Water hopes to inspire a global movement of blue minds. The foundation is particularly committed to working with under-resourced coastal communities, where young people often have limited access to the underwater world. I Am Water believes that by changing our behaviour and protecting nature, we can ensure a sustainable future for both humans and the natural world.
Adaptation Research Alliance
The Adaptation Research Alliance (ARA) was established during the 26th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP26) to address the urgent need for an action-oriented approach to adaptation research. Comprising a global community of researchers, the ARA is committed to working with governments, vulnerable communities, and other stakeholders to generate solutions that reduce the risks from climate change.
The ARA Secretariat is hosted by SouthSouthNorth, a non-profit organisation operating in Cape Town that assists governments, the private sector and research institutions in understanding the economic, social and environmental choices that climate change presents. At the heart of the ARA's mission is the promotion of equitable collaboration and user-centred design in research. By highlighting the critical role of research in informing effective adaptation action at local, national, and global levels, the ARA aims to mobilise the research community to work together towards a sustainable future.
Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa
The Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA) brings together a diverse group of civil society actors dedicated to promoting food sovereignty and agroecology in Africa. With 30 active members, AFSA represents smallholder farmers, pastoralists, hunter/gatherers, indigenous peoples, faith-based institutions, environmentalists, and consumer movements from across the continent. As a network of networks, AFSA serves as a powerful platform for consolidating issues related to food sovereignty and advocating for African solutions.
At its core, AFSA seeks to influence policies and promote sustainable solutions that prioritise local food systems and the well-being of African communities. By marshaling a collective voice and promoting clear, workable solutions, AFSA is helping to shape the future of food and agriculture in Africa.
Oranjezicht City Farm
The Oranjezicht City Farm (OZCF) is a celebrated educational non-profit project situated in Cape Town, South Africa. Founded in 2012, this 0.25ha community food garden on a heritage site has grown to become the most widely recognised project of the SA Urban Food & Farming Trust. OZCF offers a wide range of educational programmes, including workshops, internships, mentoring, and hands-on learning for people of all ages and interests, making it a hub for urban agriculture and innovation.
With over 60,000 social media followers, two published books, and more than 10,000 volunteer hours per year, the OZCF Market is now an independent legal entity. As a leading voice in the urban farming movement in South Africa, OZCF's success has informed the direction of the SAUFF Trust and has inspired further projects to strengthen urban communities and the ecosystems that sustain them.
Kusini Water
Kusini Water is a social enterprise committed to providing clean drinking water to rural and informal settlements across Africa. Founded in 2016, they use nanotechnology and locally sourced macadamia nut shells to build water treatment systems that are modular, affordable, and mobile-enabled. Kusini Water's mission is to ensure that 5 million people have access to sustainable and safe water by 2025.
Using locally sourced materials, expertise, and renewable energy, Kusini Water brings a customisable and durable solution to communities in need. Their systems are designed to provide clean and safe drinking water to anyone, regardless of location, while also prioritising the importance of sustainability. Kusini Water is dedicated to their goal of achieving universal access to safe water and making a positive impact on the African continent.
Soil for Life
Soil for Life is a non-profit organisation dedicated to teaching individuals and groups how to cultivate their own food, improve their health and well-being, and protect the environment. They provide training and support to people interested in growing food at home, as well as to gardeners involved in community and school-based projects. Soil for Life's approach emphasises the importance of nurturing healthy, nutrient-rich soil that can produce high-quality crops, even in small spaces, and their gardeners are taught how to sustain their gardens with minimal expense.
Beyond gardening and food, Soil for Life is committed to cultivating well-rounded individuals who are resourceful, creative, and confident. They promote community networks among gardeners, creating opportunities for exchanging produce and building support systems. Their vision is a healthy world where people work together to cultivate healthy soils, grow nutritious food, and heal the planet. Soil for Life's mission is to teach people how to create sustainable food gardens that build healthy, fertile soils and promote maximum production of nutrient-rich crops in any available space.
GreenCape
GreenCape is a non-profit organisation that champions the adoption of economically viable green solutions from South Africa. By collaborating with businesses, investors, academia, and government, GreenCape aims to unlock the full potential of green technologies and services, promoting a shift towards a resilient green economy. Established in 2010, GreenCape strives towards its vision of a thriving and prosperous Africa, mobilised by the green economy.
In the next 5 years, GreenCape aims to achieve global recognition for its role in driving the uptake of green economy infrastructure solutions in developing countries. Through working at the interface between business, government, and academia, GreenCape identifies and removes barriers to economically viable green solutions, catalysing their replicable and large-scale uptake. Ultimately, GreenCape's efforts enable each country and its citizens to prosper.
African Centre for a Green Economy
The African Centre for Green Economy (AfriCGE) is a non-profit think tank specialising in research and advisory services for the transition towards a green economy in Africa. As a multi-disciplinary organisation, AfriCGE offers green enterprise development and investment services to government, business, and civil society.
With a mission to provide thought leadership, raise awareness, and build capacity, AfriCGE aims to promote a new and inclusive economy that promotes both human well-being and environmental sustainability. Their vision is to help Africa transition towards a brighter future through the adoption of green technologies and practices, ultimately creating a more prosperous and sustainable society.
Oh-lief
Oh-lief is a brand that was founded by two sisters, Christine Buchanan and Louiza Rademan, in 2010. Their passion for nature and their commitment to creating products that are safe for both the skin and the environment was the driving force behind the brand's creation. Oh-lief's name is a nod to their love for olive oil, the main ingredient in all their products, and their dedication to using only natural ingredients.
Christine's desire to find a skincare range that was safe to use during pregnancy led her and Louiza to develop a range of natural and organic baby and body care products. Oh-lief's complete range of products is certified natural and organic, and made from 100% natural and organic, raw ingredients sourced locally. Their products do not contain any harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, petroleum, parabens, artificial colours, or synthetic bases. With a focus on clean cosmetics, Oh-lief is a brand that's all about loving your skin and the environment.
SKOON
SKOON is a brand rooted in the rich beauty traditions of Africa. Drawing on centuries of ancestral knowledge, they have created a range of nourishing and replenishing beauty products that are both effective and kind to the earth. SKOON's lab, located on a farm near Cape Town, sources potent natural ingredients sustainably harvested from across Africa. And with a pledge to donate 1% of gross sales to environmental non-profits and support the Baobab Foundation in South Africa, every purchase of SKOON is a meaningful contribution to a better world.
SKOON believes that beauty should be clean and kind, both to your skin and your conscience. They are committed to using sustainable packaging and ingredients that do no harm to Earth, people, or animals. But SKOON goes further than just eco-friendly formulas and packaging; they are also dedicated to giving back. By supporting small farmers and environmental non-profits, SKOON creates a kinder, more beautiful world for us all.
SiyaBuddy
SiyaBuddy is a waste management company based in South Africa that collects, sorts, bales and resells waste materials to recyclers. Their mission is to promote environmental protection and conservation while creating job opportunities for the community. By offering waste awareness and separation training, they teach community members how to store waste and turn it into a source of income. SiyaBuddy has employed 28 young people and supports over 1000 indirect jobs through waste collectors who sell to them regularly. Their efforts have resulted in the redirection of 200 tons of waste from landfills each month, contributing to the sustainable goal of responsible consumption and production.
SiyaBuddy not only addresses environmental concerns but also social issues such as unemployment and poverty. They provide direct and indirect job opportunities, supporting the community and preventing social exclusion. By cleaning up the surroundings and contributing to public health, SiyaBuddy creates a waste-free environment for everyone to enjoy. With their innovative waste management strategies and dedication to sustainability, SiyaBuddy is a valuable asset to South Africa's economy and environment.
WasteWant
WasteWant is a pioneering trash and recycling pickup company that has been transforming local communities for over a decade. With a passion for sustainable waste management, they have been actively cleaning up the environment while also contributing to the local economy. From humble beginnings on the Cape Flats, WasteWant has become the preferred supplier for waste management services in the Western Cape.
Their services include recycling, waste removal, garden maintenance, project management, facilities management, and cleansing services. WasteWant prides itself on its commitment to providing efficient and reliable services that go above and beyond the expectations of its clients. With WasteWant, you can trust that your waste will be managed responsibly, and that your community will be cleaner.
The Refillery
The Refillery is a revolutionary planet-friendly grocer that provides a unique, plastic-free shopping experience. With a 'weigh-and-pay' approach, customers can fill their pantries with high-quality, ethically-sourced products without any wasteful packaging. The founders' passion for the environment led them to create The Refillery as a small way to contribute to reducing plastic pollution. The Refillery also offers home delivery, refilling services, and a call-and-collect facility for added convenience.
This fast-growing global trend caters to environmentally-concerned and convenience-seeking customers alike. By offering single-use plastic-free, responsibly sourced, and refillable products, The Refillery aims to help reduce South Africa's and the world's plastic pollution crisis. Join The Refillery and stock your pantry package-free.
Nude Foods
Nude Foods is leading the charge in the plastic-free shopping revolution. Their old-school grocery store with a modern twist provides a unique shopping experience that is both eco-friendly and sustainable. With their "fill, weigh and pay" system, customers can stock up on high-quality, local, and delicious foods and eco-friendly home & body products without creating any wasteful packaging.
Nude Foods is committed to supporting local suppliers and waste-reducing initiatives while making plastic-free shopping accessible to the everyday consumer. Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond their products, as they strive to create a plastic-free shopping experience that is both easy and accessible for all. With their passion for sustainability and dedication to supporting local suppliers, Nude Foods is revolutionising the way we shop and live.
Waste-Ed
Waste-ED, founded by Candice Mostert in 2014, is dedicated to promoting a zero-waste lifestyle through the implementation of waste-to-resource systems. Offering interactive zero-waste setups, consulting, research, workshops, and presentations, the organisation focuses on developing and applying environment-based waste management solutions and education. Waste-ED also collects Ecobricks and utilises them to build much-needed, well-insulated structures, teaching the skill of natural clay building along the way.
Mostert's inspiration for starting Waste-ED came from meeting Upcycle Santa Fe's director, Jo Stodgel, in 2012. For three years, Candice and Jo worked with Greyton Transition Town (GTT) in South Africa, transforming the local dumpsite into a Green Park, a resource centre for the community to turn "trash into treasure." During this time, Candice built the first known South African Ecobrick outdoor classroom at the Green Park and worked with local schools and businesses to revive the concept of valuing wasted resources. Waste-ED's mission is rooted in this experience, and the organisation continues to utilise the Ecobrick as a primary tool for waste education, empowering individuals and communities to better understand the materials they use and where they end up.
Mpact
Mpact is a leading paper and plastics packaging and recycling business in Southern Africa. With 44 operating sites across South Africa, Namibia, and Mozambique, Mpact has established a unique integrated business model that focuses on closing the loop in plastic and paper packaging.
As South Africa's largest collector of recyclable packaging, Mpact collected over 620,000 tonnes of paper and plastic recyclables in 2021, contributing to reduced landfill waste and local beneficiation of raw materials. They also support the development of over 50 small businesses and operate a liquid packaging recycling plant that can recycle 24,000 tonnes of used liquid cartons annually, saving 65,240m3 of landfill space.
EcoPack
EcoPack offers eco-friendly alternatives to traditional single-use packaging, with a mission to promote environmental responsibility. As the premier sustainable packaging solutions company in South Africa, they provide a wide range of biodegradable and compostable food and beverage containers, cartons, and other packaging consumables that add value while reducing environmental impact. The team is committed to their core values of integrity, stewardship, quality, and harmony, and their goal is to create positive environmental change through sustainable and eco-efficient business practices and products.
EcoPack is a member of the Earthly Directions Group of Companies and actively participates in promoting eco-efficiency in packaging choices. They strive to maintain a customer-focused approach in all their business dealings and remain dedicated to advancing the development and use of environmentally sustainable packaging solutions. Their vision is to be socially responsible corporate citizens who supply superior quality products manufactured according to high standards while actively participating in society.
uYilo
uYilo is a national electric mobility programme in South Africa that has been actively promoting the electric mobility ecosystem since 2013. As a multi-stakeholder programme, uYilo engages in government lobbying, industry engagement, pilot projects, capacity and enterprise development, and thought leadership. The name "uYilo" is derived from the local Xhosa language, meaning "to create," reflecting the programme's mission to create an enabling environment for the eMobility industry in South Africa and Africa.
In support of the ecosystem technologies, uYilo's technical facilities include ISO 17025 accredited battery testing, materials testing, electric vehicle systems, and a live testing environment providing inter-operability between electric vehicles and the smart grid. uYilo is an initiative of the Technology Innovation Agency, a public entity of the national Department of Science and Innovation. The programme's impact aligns with the required outcomes of various national and international development plans, strategies, and agreements for economic and social transformation.
350 Africa.org
350 Africa.org is a movement dedicated to combating climate change and building a collective response to the crisis. Founded in 2008 by a group of university friends in the U.S. and author Bill McKibben, 350.org aims to mobilise grassroots activists across the globe to take action on climate change.
At 350Africa.org, a small team of paid staff supports independent organisations and campaigns run by passionate activists throughout the continent. By harnessing the power of people and facilitating public actions, 350 Africa.org seeks to counter the influence of the fossil fuel industry and create a more sustainable, livable planet for future generations.
Plentify
Plentify is a smart energy company committed to providing affordable, clean and dependable electricity to all. Their expert team blends cutting-edge technology, artificial intelligence and intuitive design to develop smart home products that satisfy customers and strengthen global energy systems. With a diverse group of specialists in energy, data science, hardware, software and business, Plentify serves clients from around the globe while reinvesting most of their earnings towards their mission.
Plentify's founders, who grew up in South Africa, created the company out of necessity during the 2008 rolling blackouts. The energy system's rapid deterioration made power supply both unreliable and unaffordable, spurring the Plentify team to combine their skills to tackle the critical energy challenges. The team firmly believes that an intelligent, cleaner and more economical energy system is essential for enhancing societal and planetary resilience.
weADAPT
WeADAPT provides a virtual hub for climate adaptation issues, offering practitioners, researchers, and policymakers access to high-quality information and a platform to share their experiences with the community. It is an open space that enables learning, exchange, and collaboration, while fostering a professional community of research and practice on adaptation issues. The platform is specifically designed to promote knowledge integration and provide policy-relevant tools and guidance for adaptation planning and decision-making.
With a focus on the synergies between adaptation and mitigation, WeADAPT is committed to facilitating the development of effective climate policies. By providing a space for discussion and the exchange of ideas, the platform aims to create a dynamic community of individuals who are dedicated to finding practical solutions to the challenges posed by climate change.
Umgibe
Umgibe Farming Organics is a Level 1 B-BBEE, 100% black-owned vegetable-growing system based in South Africa. Their mission is to provide a sustainable, carbon-saving, and income-generating platform for grassroots farmers to market their organic vegetables. They are committed to delivering high-quality, reasonably priced products that are grown without harming the environment, and that provide balanced nutrition.
The story of Umgibe began with Ma' Joye, a cancer patient who started growing organic vegetables in her backyard to provide food for her family. After losing her crops to chickens, she developed a growing system using plastic bags that would have otherwise ended up in landfills. This innovation not only protected her crops but also saved water and fed her family and neighbours. Umgibe has since grown into a platform where underserved communities can grow and sell their own vegetables, providing hope and opportunities for those in need.
Earthrise Trust
Earthrise Trust is a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to creating a sustainable and self-sufficient community. Their projects and enterprises are designed to give previously marginalised populations a human voice and enable social participation and local growth. By developing skilled entrepreneurs and artisans who own and manage competitive small-scale agroecology enterprises, Earthrise Trust is paving the way for a just, sustainable, and peaceful world.
Through collaboration with village leaders and residents, Earthrise Trust has formulated four goals with achievable objectives: eco-farming, rural development, built environment, and retreat & activism. They aim to attract a community of socially conscious supporters committed to becoming an active part of a local and global learning movement, working to build a positive legacy for future generations. Additionally, the organisation is dedicated to the rebuilding and guardianship of the historic Rustlers Valley Farm in Ficksburg as a pilot "collaborative development space," where the ideals of the Earth Charter can be put into action.
Eco Atlas
Eco Atlas is a comprehensive platform that empowers individuals, families, and businesses to make sustainable lifestyle and travel choices. By utilising its unique search function, users can easily locate eco-friendly places to eat, shop, stay and play in South Africa. The platform showcases businesses that are dedicated to achieving sustainable goals, from recycling to supporting local communities with profit-sharing. Eco Atlas is the first platform of its kind in South Africa to highlight the social and environmental achievements of businesses, and anyone can be listed as long as they meet at least three of the Eco Choice criteria.
Knowledge is power, and Eco Atlas puts the power of choice back into the hands of conscious travelers and active citizens. Users can easily find what they’re looking for with the help of the twenty Eco Choice icons, or recommend a place they love to help grow the eco-ethic movement. With Eco Atlas, individuals can make informed decisions about where to go and source locally produced and earth-friendly goods. The platform is a beacon for positive change, highlighting the efforts of those who walk the talk of social justice and regenerative practices.
Regenize
Regenize is a recycling collections company based in Cape Town that is driven by sustainability and innovation. Its name was created by combining three words that describe the company: "Re" representing reduce, reuse or recycling; "Gen" representing generation; and "Nize" for its catchy sound.
Regenize not only rewards people for recycling, but also educates the youth through its Regenize Education programmes. The company spends time researching and designing new ways to reuse waste and turn it into products that can benefit many. As evangelists of recycling, Regenize collects, educates, and transforms waste, striving to make a positive social impact and get Africa recycling.
WakaWaka
WakaWaka, a social enterprise established in 2012 by Maurits Groen and Camille van Gestel, aimed to bring portable solar products to individuals living without access to electricity. The name WakaWaka, derived from Swahili, translates to "shine bright." With the purchase of each WakaWaka product, the company donates a solar light to a family in need.
The inspiration for WakaWaka originated in 2010, while Maurits and Camille were working to offset carbon emissions from the World Cup championship held in South Africa. Witnessing the numerous individuals without access to electricity, the duo resolved to create a solution. In 2012, WakaWaka launched their first product, a solar flashlight named the WakaWaka Light. Two years later, through successful Kickstarter and OnePlanetCrowd campaigns, the company developed the WakaWaka Power, a solar charger and flashlight, and the WakaWaka Base, a solar home kit, raising over $1 million combined.
Heinrich Böll Foundation
The Heinrich Böll Foundation has been a staunch supporter of democracy, human rights, gender justice, ecological justice, and constructive dialogue in Southern Africa for over four decades. Through strong partnerships and networks, the Foundation has become a reliable funding partner and collaborator for progressive civil society and non-state actors in Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Their focus areas include four programmes: Democracy & Social Justice, Human Rights & Gender Justice, Ecological Justice, and International Dialogue & African Perspectives. The Foundation also contributes research and analyses of contemporary political events in the region, on the continent, and worldwide.
As a think tank for green visions and projects, the Heinrich Böll Foundation is part of an international network of over 100 partner projects in about 60 countries. They maintain a worldwide network with 30 international offices and closely cooperate with 16 state-level Böll Foundations in each of Germany's federal states. The Foundation supports talented, socio-politically engaged undergraduate and graduate students in Germany and abroad. Following Heinrich Böll's exhortation for citizens to get involved in politics, the Foundation wants to inspire others to do the same, while maintaining a spirit of intellectual openness and independence.
PETCO
PETCO, also known as the PET Recycling Company, was founded in 2004 with the mission of improving the management and recycling of post-consumer PET products in South Africa. Through their efforts, PETCO has significantly reduced CO2 emissions, created income opportunities, and prevented a significant portion of landfill space from being used. PETCO operates with the belief that plastic bottles are not trash and continuously spreads this message throughout South Africa.
As a registered Producer Responsibility Organisation, PETCO is financed by mandatory EPR fees paid by Producer members based on identified PET products placed onto the South African market. PETCO works with the entire PET value chain to implement EPR and promote environmental responsibility. With offices in Cape Town and Johannesburg, PETCO is committed to providing a cradle-to-cradle solution for post-consumer PET and advancing a circular economy for PET plastic.
CL Trading
CL Trading has been a prominent player in the recycling, waste management, and steelworks industry for 26 years. Their commitment to delivering efficient and high-quality results has earned them a loyal clientele, and they pride themselves on consistency in service. As a rising leader in the business, CL Trading is confident in their ability to provide top-notch waste management solutions to businesses of all sizes in the Western Province.
CL Trading has forged partnerships with numerous small and large businesses in the Western Province, and they are dedicated to enhancing the customer experience. Their focus on convenience, accuracy, and timely delivery and pick-ups sets them apart in the industry.
Project 90 by 2030
Project 90 by 2030 is an organisation dedicated to achieving social and environmental justice in South Africa. Their goal is to inspire and mobilise the country towards a sustainable, low-carbon future through a Just Energy Transition. The organisation works with stakeholders and decision-makers to identify policies and actions that support climate justice, with a particular focus on developing environmental leadership among young people and increasing public engagement to address climate change, energy poverty, and social injustices.
Project 90 by 2030 is a change-focused organisation committed to bringing about significant, positive change in the way people engage with the earth and with each other. Their vision is a South Africa that is sustainably developed and equitable, with a 90% reduction in the country's impact on earth systems by 2030. To achieve this, they apply five key principles to their work: people-centered leadership, practical action, partnerships, research, advocacy, and communication. Through their efforts, Project 90 by 2030 hopes to create a better future for all South Africans.
The Green Connection
Established in 2000, The Green Connection has been actively working towards contributing to sustainable development goals through the efforts of a dynamic and multidisciplinary group of individuals and organisations. In 2021, the civil society organisation was restructured to become an NPC with a board of directors, while still retaining its section 18A tax benefit status. At the core of The Green Connection's philosophy is the belief that empowering people to participate in decision-making about their environment is the only way to achieve truly sustainable development.
The organisation recognises that our environmental resources are limited and that it is our responsibility to protect them for future generations. The Green Connection aims to provide practical support to both the government and non-government sectors, which are integral to sustainable development. Their work has involved collaborating with diverse funders and partners, as well as national and local government, on various initiatives to foster understanding and awareness about the different aspects of sustainable development.
Climate Justice Charter Movement
The Climate Justice Charter emerged from six years of tireless campaigning by the South African Food Sovereignty Campaign and the Cooperative and Policy Alternative Centre. The Charter was informed by input from a diverse range of groups, including water-stressed communities, climate scientists, women's organisations, and leading activists. It was finalised and launched in 2020, with demands for adoption by parliament and plans for just transitions in communities and workplaces.
The Climate Justice Charter Movement was officially launched in October 2020, following a lengthy process of drafting and community input. The Charter has been widely supported by a range of organisations and activists, and its demands for climate justice and deep transitions are grounded in the South African Constitution. The movement aims to bring about meaningful change in the fight against climate change, and to create a more just and sustainable future for all.
Love Our City Klean
Love Our City Klean is a forward-thinking waste management company that prioritises the diversion of recyclables away from landfills. Through education, community awareness, and effective collection and sorting methods, they aim to reintroduce materials back into the economy. The LOCK Recycling Hub is a prime example of this commitment, offering weekly collection days for recyclables and educating the community on the importance of "separation at source". Members are rewarded with points for their recyclable contributions, which can be redeemed at the Swop Shop every Friday for essential items like food, clothes, and toiletries. Additionally, the collected materials are creatively repurposed through various upcycling initiatives, including the innovative "Trash to Art" projects.
Originally launched as a response to the food crisis during lockdown level 5, Love Our City Klean's project has received an overwhelming response from the community. As a result, the project will continue and will also serve as a model for other communities looking to launch their own recycling hubs. With Love Our City Klean's guidance, more and more communities will be able to divert waste from landfills, educate their residents about recycling, and create a more sustainable future.
Don’t Gas Africa
The Don't Gas Africa campaign is a movement led by African civil society to break Africa's reliance on fossil gas production. The campaign calls for an end to fossil-fuel-induced energy apartheid in Africa, which has left over 600 million Africans without access to modern, clean, and renewable energy. Instead, the campaign advocates for cost-effective, clean, decentralised, and appropriate energy systems that can deliver renewable energy assets to people and communities across the continent. The campaign also calls for a transformative, people-led process that involves rapid social, economic, and political change to achieve energy democracy and ensure governments serve the interests of the people, not corporate fossil fuel polluters.
Through Don't Gas Africa, movements across Africa join forces to demand an end to fossil gas and other dirty, dangerous, and obsolete energy systems. The campaign believes that scaling up clean, renewable energy is the fastest and most effective way to end energy exclusion and meet the energy needs of Africa's people. Supported by allies around the world, the campaign calls on governments to prioritise renewable energy and deliver it into the hands of people and communities across the continent, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Power Shift Africa
Power Shift Africa is a dynamic think tank that offers cutting-edge analysis, innovative policy ideas, and comprehensive media engagement from an African perspective. With a strong focus on climate action, PSA seeks to mobilise and amplify African voices by increasing their visibility in media and public communications, both on the continent and internationally. As part of its work, PSA is actively building dedicated platforms for African civil society organisations, technical experts, and high-level leadership to drive transformative, Africa-led efforts towards harnessing the continent's vast renewable energy potential. Through its bold actions, PSA aspires to empower governments, businesses, groups, and communities in Africa with innovative ideas and options for accelerated low emissions and climate-resilient development, all towards a green and prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development.
PSA's mission is to foster climate action in Africa, promote a paradigm shift where renewable energy is viewed as a systemic source of poverty alleviation across the continent, and enable African voices to shape the global discourse on climate change and energy policy. To achieve this, PSA is dedicated to strengthening engagement by African officials and civil society organisations on climate and sustainable energy issues, establishing a strong network of African media professionals, and providing content for advocacy and campaigning that amplifies the work of African groups to enhance climate ambition and shift investments away from fossil fuels. Ultimately, PSA envisions a future where Africa thrives on renewable energy, and where its people are empowered to lead the world towards a sustainable and prosperous future.
SACAN
As a proud member of the Climate Action Network (CAN), SACAN joins forces with over 1300 NGOs across 130 countries. SACAN is committed to driving climate justice in South Africa by mobilising and supporting partners in the development of effective strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With a people and policy-oriented approach, SACAN seeks to promote renewable energy, reduce deforestation, and ensure sustainable water use. Their ultimate goal is to facilitate low-carbon development in South Africa and empower the community through public dialogues.
SACAN’s mission is to ensure that effective national policies, strategies, and actions are implemented in response to the impacts of climate change in South Africa. To achieve this, SACAN undertakes scientific research and brings the international climate agenda into the local context of South Africa, embracing Agenda 2030 and the Paris Agreement. SACAN's vision is to become the vanguard of climate action coordination in South Africa, fostering a national voice in the climate change discourse and promoting climate-resilient behaviour. SACAN is committed to the accurate operation and socio-economic development of South Africa, making it an essential partner in the fight against climate change.
As we celebrate the incredible work of South Africa's top environmental organisations, one thing becomes clear: we all have a role to play in shaping the future of our planet. Whether you choose to support conservation efforts, advocate for sustainable policies, or simply make small changes in your daily life, every action counts. But above all, we must come together to confront the urgent and pressing reality of the climate crisis. It's not a choice, it's a necessity. Let's take inspiration from these organisations and work together to create a better, greener, and more sustainable world.
Is anyone missing from our list? Pop us an email at hello@treeshake.com to let us know, so that we can continue celebrating South Africa’s top environmental organisations.
50 ECO-ADVOCATES SPEAKING UP FOR PLANET EARTH
Are you passionate about the environment and looking for inspiration and guidance from those at the forefront of the fight for sustainability in South Africa? Look no further than Treeshake's 50 eco-advocates speaking up for planet Earth. They are the advocates who fight for change, the champions who lead the way, the journalists and media who inform and educate, the researchers and academics who deepen our understanding, the policy influencers who shape our laws and regulations, and the entrepreneurs who innovate and create new solutions. Together, they make up a dynamic and diverse group of voices shaping the conversation on issues that matter most to our environment and society.
Are you passionate about the environment and looking for inspiration and guidance from those at the forefront of the fight for sustainability in South Africa? Look no further than Treeshake's 50 eco-advocates speaking up for Planet Earth. They are the advocates who fight for change, the champions who lead the way, the journalists and media who inform and educate, the researchers and academics who deepen our understanding, the policy influencers who shape our laws and regulations, and the entrepreneurs who innovate and create new solutions. Together, they make up a dynamic and diverse group of voices shaping the conversation on issues that matter most to our environment and society.
Climate change is a global issue that demands immediate action. With the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters, the rise in global temperatures, and the degradation of our ecosystems, the consequences of climate change are already being felt across the world. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), human activities are the primary cause of climate change, and urgent action is required to limit global warming to 1.5°C to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.
According to the World Bank, South Africa is one of the countries that will be most affected by the impacts of climate change. This includes more frequent and severe droughts, floods, and heatwaves, which will have a devastating impact on the country's people and economy, highlighting the urgent need for action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect vulnerable ecosystems. The eco-advocates featured on this list are taking this call to action seriously and are working tirelessly to make a difference.
THE ENTREPRENEURS
Nadia Shah Naidoo
“Climate change is truly a developmental issue with justice at its core.”
Nadia Shah Naidoo, an inclusive climate action manager based in Cape Town, advocates for a greener future in South Africa that prioritises social and climate justice. As part of her work with the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, she focuses on mitigating climate risks for vulnerable groups affected by extreme environmental conditions. Shah Naidoo has also provided guidance on climate change to governments at the national, provincial, and local levels in South Africa.
Her career in climate change began at the eThekwini municipality, where she worked as a consultant on Durban’s Climate Change Strategy and the 100 Resilient Cities Programme. Shah Naidoo acknowledges that addressing environmental challenges requires an understanding of their interconnectedness with social and economic issues, and that climate change is ultimately a developmental issue rooted in justice.
Jon Kornik
“We're on track to build the largest virtual power plant of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere -- which should help alleviate loadshedding in SA, and aid in the clean energy transition more broadly.”
Jon Kornik is the CEO and Co-founder of Plentify, a company that builds smart technology that enables the energy system we all want – one where electricity is affordable, reliable, and clean. Jon's passion for tackling problems that matter stems from his upbringing in South Africa, where he witnessed the stark difference between those who fought against Apartheid and those who accepted it with complacency. In his first job in management consulting, Jon had the opportunity to work on a clean energy project that sparked his interest and ignited his passion for addressing climate change, which he believes is the greatest challenge facing our generation and disproportionately impacts the populations he cares about most.
Since then, Jon has dedicated his career to environmental sustainability, constantly seeking to innovate and find novel solutions to deeply ingrained problems. What drives Jon to continue his work is the impact he makes, the intellectual stimulation he receives, and the satisfaction of knowing that he is playing a vital role in creating a clean energy system that the world needs and deserves.
Jocelyn van der Ross
“When you are down and out never give up, never stay down. Get up and start again.”
Meet Jocelyn van der Ross, the inspiring Director of Green Spot Recycling. Jocelyn's passion for the environment was sparked during a difficult time in her life - she was unemployed and going through a divorce when she moved to Franschhoek with her two children. Upon discovering the absence of recycling facilities in the area, Jocelyn took it upon herself to start collecting wine bottles in her Toyota Corolla. Over time, she expanded her operation to include a wider variety of materials and began offering jobs to the local community.
Jocelyn's dedication to the cause has only grown stronger over time. She is involved in various clean-up projects, such as keeping plastics out of rivers and streets and paying the community per bag. She is also passionate about educating schools on the importance of recycling and has implemented a buy back programme and a Swop Shop for the community.
What motivates Jocelyn to continue her work? The knowledge that Green Spot Recycling is making a tangible difference in the environment by keeping over 800,000 tons of recycling material from the Stellenbosch landfill each year. The satisfaction of knowing her contributions are having a positive impact on the planet keeps Jocelyn going every day.
THE POLICY INFLUENCERS
Mieke Bourne
“Giving up on restoring our landscapes is not an option if we want a world where people can live good lives with a healthy environment. We should not be asking if this can work but how do we make it succeed.”
Mieke Bourne is the Regreening Africa Programme Manager and Lead Stakeholder Engagement with Evidence at World Agroforestry. Her passion for environmental conservation and sustainability began at the age of 12, growing up in a breathtaking region with abundant forests and pristine oceans.
With a firm belief that humanity must coexist harmoniously with nature, Mieke has dedicated her career to creating positive change in this field. Her unwavering motivation comes from witnessing the transformational impact of her work on both communities and landscapes, as well as the inspiring partnerships and individuals she collaborates with.
Neoka Naidoo
"Tough times are when you need support; ask for help when you need it. It is a strength, not a weakness."
At the frontline of the critical issue of climate change stands Neoka Naidoo. With qualifications in environmental science and public leadership, she excels as the project lead for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
Naidoo fosters strong relationships between governments and NPOs affected by the climate change convention, tirelessly working towards engaging all stakeholders in the fight against climate change. Through her work in the battle against the climate crisis, she aims to make a significant impact.
Mpho Parks Tau
“There are issues that I champion both in the city and on international platforms, ranging from environmental justice and sustainability to issues about building and creating inclusive cities.”
Mpho Parks Tau assumed the position of Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs in March 2023, having been a Member of the South African National Assembly since February 2023. Prior to his parliamentary service, Tau served as a Member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature and was appointed as MEC for Economic Development from December 2020 to October 2022. Mr Tau is widely regarded as an innovative and effective leader in government, who has championed the cause of developmental local government and forged strategic partnerships across the globe.
As the former Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, he spearheaded a transformative socio-economic agenda that sought to redress past injustices and create sustainable opportunities for the municipality's communities. In addition to his impressive record of service, Mr Tau has also served as co-Chairperson of the United Nations High Level Independent Panel, and sits on the board of the World Resources Institute's Ross Centre for Sustainable Cities, as well as having served as Chairperson of the South African Cities Network.
Mark New
“70% of extreme weather events studied over the last ten years have had their severity increased by anthropogenic climate change.”
Introducing Mark New, a distinguished Professor and Pro-Vice Chancellor for Climate Change, also serving as the Director of the African Climate and Development Initiative at the University of Cape Town. His scholarly interest in climate change began in 1990 when he embarked on his Masters and later pursued a PhD focused on the sensitivity of water resources in the Western Cape to climate change.
Mark's fascination with the profound natural experiment of climate change has persisted throughout his career, evolving from understanding its causes to informing climate action. Today, his work focuses on advocating for emissions reduction, mitigating risks, and developing adaptive strategies to address the unavoidable impacts of climate change.
Happy Khambule
"If not now, when. If not you, who. If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."
Meet Happy Khambule, the dynamic Unit Head for Energy and Environment at Business Unity South Africa. His journey towards environmental and sustainability advocacy began with a desire to make a positive impact on his immediate surroundings and instill a sense of responsibility towards environmental stewardship and climate change awareness.
His unwavering dedication to the cause is fueled by the inspiring changes he witnesses at various levels, and the sheer tenacity of fellow activists who share his vision for transformation. Happy Khambule is a passionate advocate for a sustainable and green future, and his work reflects a deep commitment to leaving the world a better place for future generations.
Dr. Chido Mpemba
“Young Africa has a role to play in solving the problems we face.”
Dr. Chido Mpemba, a renowned Pan-African youth advocate and public policy expert, is the African Union Special Envoy on Youth, responsible for representing the voices of over 870 Million young people in 55 countries and governments in Africa. She is recognized as one of the 100 most influential African women and a Top 100, Under 40 Most Influential Person of African Descent by CNN New York.
Dr. Mpemba is committed to creating social equity and advocating for policies on education, climate change, public health, and youth empowerment across Africa. She is an alumni of the Emerging Security Sector Leaders Program from the Africa Center of Strategic Studies and holds an MBA degree with seven years of experience in international banking before becoming a diplomat.
Dr. Vhalinavho Khavhagali
“The world is looking for durable and effective options to tackle global challenges such as climate change, food and water security.”
Dr. Vhalinavho Khavhagali is a seasoned specialist in Biodiversity and Climate Change, boasting extensive experience in research, capacity building, and policy development. He obtained a Master of Science degree in Botany and Ecology from the University of Cape Town, after which he joined the corporate world. Khavhagali has held various key positions, including serving as the Director: Climate Change Adaptation at the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA), Deputy Director for Biodiversity and Climate Change, and Senior Scientist at the Department of Environment and Nature Conservation, Northern Cape.
Khavhagali has made significant contributions in the field of Climate Change Adaptation both in South Africa and internationally. In recognition of his work, Khavhagali was nominated as one of the Climate Change Leaders by the Mail & Guardian Newspaper in 2014. Khavhagali is currently pursuing his PhD, where his research focuses on climate change governance in South Africa, particularly the process and approaches used in the development of climate change policy and strategy. He is exploring the extent to which the national adaptation strategy addresses the country's challenges.
Bhekumuzi Dean Bhebhe
“The climate emergency is not waiting for us - climate justice is not just about worrying about how the world will look in 2050. Climate justice is about how the world already looks (in some parts of the world) today.”
Bhekumuzi Dean Bhebhe is the Campaigns Lead at Power Shift Africa, whose passion for the environment is deeply rooted in his upbringing. Growing up, Bhekumuzi spent school holidays in his grandparents' quaint village in Zimbabwe, relishing in the delectable meals and enthralling storytelling of his elders. However, as droughts and food shortages began to plague the village, Bhekumuzi realised that climate injustice was at the root of their suffering.
This realisation fueled his dedication to fighting for the future of our planet and improving the lives of Africans. Bhekumuzi wakes up every day with renewed determination to be a voice for the voiceless and advocate for a better world for all. Despite the lack of progress and empty promises, Bhekumuzi is inspired to continue his work until the energy Apartheid is eradicated and decision-makers in boardrooms understand the dangerous consequences of their actions.
Lebo Molefe
“Action on climate change is not just about saving the planet, it is about saving people and saving the economy.”
Lebo Molefe is the Director of the Air Quality and Climate Change department at the City of Johannesburg Metro Council. With a demonstrated history of working in the environmental services industry, Lebo is a seasoned Director with a wealth of experience. Lebo's skill set includes natural resource management, management, editing, public speaking, and performance management. With an MSc in Botany from the University of Fort Hare, Lebo is a strong professional who is committed to making a difference in the field of environmental services.
THE ADVOCATES
Sarah Robyn Farrell
“I believe that all organising is science fiction - that we are shaping the future we long for and have not yet experienced.” - Adrienne Maree Brown
Sarah Robyn Farrell is a climate justice organizer, musician, and writer who has always valued caring for the earth and people, instilled in her by her mother from a young age. Her deep connection to outdoor spaces, particularly bodies of water and forests, heightened her awareness of the accelerating harm being done to our planet. This awareness led her to understand the systemic nature of the problem, and the link between environmental degradation and harm to people.
Sarah's work with African Climate Alliance involves organising and campaigning. Her inspiration to continue this work comes from the many people who have worked before her to make the world a better place and the countless individuals who continue to give their hearts, minds, and bodies to create a better world today.
Xoli Fuyani
“I love working with young people from underserved communities because of the vision, innovation, and possibilities they see in this gloomy world.”
Xoli Fuyani is an environmentalist and the founder of Black Girls Rising. With over 15 years of experience, she has successfully educated intergenerational groups on environmental issues, taught in schools to raise awareness, trained young climate activists, and inspired them to live sustainably. Xoli's motivation stems from the disparities she witnessed in her community compared to nearby suburbs, where poor and marginalized people bear the brunt of climate change.
Her work aims to empower the younger generation to care for and fall in love with their environment. Despite facing challenges, Xoli finds inspiration and hope in the vision and innovation of Black Girls Rising, and her biggest motivation is to develop girls and communities in building resilience and thriving societies.
CJ Carrington
"What have you done for this irreplaceable planet, its garden & animals, entrusted to you?"
CJ Carrington, a co-founder of the Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation, is a South African nature lover with a passion for preserving biodiversity. Growing up on a small farm in South Africa, Carina developed a deep connection with nature from a young age. With post-graduate qualifications in Agriculture, she now teaches sustainable organic farming to rural communities and actively participates in mining rehabilitation and environmental management projects.
Carina's expertise lies in revitalizing over-grazed and poorly maintained veld, bringing it back to its natural state to support wildlife diversity. Her understanding of plant and tree functions is instrumental in her work. Whether she's helping an animal in need or simply basking in the beauty of the South African bush, Carina is most content when she's immersed in nature. Her natural empathy and compassion guide her in determining where she can make the most significant impact.
Makoma Lekalakala
“If you feel it's wrong, work towards creating an environment liveable for everyone.”
Makoma Lekalakala is a passionate social and environmental justice activist who serves as the Director at Earthlife Africa. Her journey in the environmental and sustainability space began in 2007/2008. Makoma draws inspiration from witnessing individuals take small but significant actions that contribute to climate change mitigation in their unique context.
Makoma's journey started as a youth activist through her church and progressed to trade unions, women's rights, social and economic justice, and ultimately environmental justice. Alongside Liz McDaid, Makoma was honoured with the prestigious 2018 Goldman Environmental Prize for the African region for their role in stopping a Russian-South African nuclear deal in 2017 through legal action.
Gabriel Klaasen
“South Africa is the biggest emitter on the continent. We owe it to the planet, people, and the future generations to come to call for a #justtransition.”
Gabriel Klaasen, a youth climate and social justice activist, is a prominent figure in Cape Town's movement for climate action. He works hands-on with communities and youth on the frontlines to build a future founded on intersectional justice. One of Klaasen's most notable achievements includes being a key organizer for the 2020 and 2021 Global Strikes in Cape Town, under the banner of intersectional climate justice. This work earned him recognition as one of the Mail & Guardian's 200 Young South Africans in 2021. Driven by a passion for his job and a desire to contribute to the greater good, Klaasen continues to make waves in the fight for a sustainable and equitable world.
Liz McDaid
“If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse and you say that you are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality.“ - Archbishop Desmond Tutu
Liz McDaid is an environmentalist with over 30 years of experience in advocacy, political activism, and ecojustice. Her unwavering passion for justice has been the driving force behind her work, advocating for those who have been silenced and demanding a voice for a sustainable future for all living beings. Liz firmly believes that addressing climate change requires an inclusive approach that prioritizes the voices of those most affected by climate injustice. For Liz, justice and peace are the foundations for building a sustainable future for our beautiful planet.
THE CHAMPIONS
Hiten Parmar
“Vision without action is just a dream, action without vision just passes the time, and vision with action can change the world.” - Nelson Mandela
Hiten Parmar is an accomplished Executive and Thought Leader, dedicated to empowering the energy transition with sustainable mobility. With over 20 years of experience in the automotive sector, he realised a decade ago the detrimental impact of traditional fossil fuel-based technologies on air quality in cities worldwide. Shocked by reports that breathing air in Delhi was equivalent to smoking 44 cigarettes a day due to petrol and diesel combustion, he redirected his career path to sustainable energy and mobility in 2013.
As an engineer at heart, Hiten is driven by a constant desire to solve the challenges presented by the climate crisis. Drawing on his technical and business acumen, he is passionate about advancing the energy and transport sector through the deployment of technological interventions that address economic, competitive, and societal issues. He firmly believes that the electric mobility ecosystem presents a vital opportunity to facilitate the energy transition on a global scale, while also contributing to economic development and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Misha Teasdale
"For us as a society to stay healthy we must maintain the vital flow of value or “ecosystem services” that nature so willingly provides to us."
Meet Misha Teasdale, the co-founder and CEO of Greenpop, a passionate advocate for the restoration of our planet. Misha believes that it's not just about planting trees, but also about transforming our approach to the landscapes we inhabit. By working with and caring for the land, we can harness its potential to provide value in a meaningful and sustainable way.
Misha is optimistic about the future of our planet, seeing the infinite possibilities for positive change, from policy shifts to new technologies that enable us to better understand and protect our living planet. As an activist, he believes that hope is a key component of his work, and that by recognizing the potential for positive change in every situation, we can work towards a more beautiful world.
Catherine Constantinides
“Many of the great achievements of the world, were accomplished by tired and discouraged people who kept on working!”
Catherine Constantinides is widely recognized as a distinguished South African intellectual and environmental advocate who concentrates on critical issues such as climate change, sustainable development, food and water security, and waste management. Along with being a social entrepreneur, she is also an active social justice activist and human rights advocate. By collaborating with the government and private sector, she has been actively consulting with schools and rural communities. As an award-winning young leader of Africa, her focus remains to tackle the continent's challenges and to propel it towards economic viability and sustainable growth.
Romario Valentine
“You are never too young to help nature or help improve the lives of others because when we take care of nature. We take care of ourselves.”
Romario Valentine is an 11-year-old eco-warrior hailing from Durban, South Africa, who has already made significant strides in the realm of conservation. His passion for protecting the environment has led him to embark on several projects, including tree planting, beach clean-ups, and avian art, both in Africa and other parts of the world.
In his latest endeavour, Romario has written a book titled "Protect our Planet," where he shares his knowledge and experiences to guide young nature lovers through key environmental topics. From recycling and reforestation to pollution solutions and climate change, Romario enthusiastically educates and inspires his readers to take action and join him in the fight to protect our planet.
Prof. Tolullah Oni
“If we focus on what is, we are condemned to repeating what was. But if we focus on what is possible, we stand a chance of transcending what is.”
Tolullah Oni, a Public Health Physician and Urban Epidemiologist, is Clinical Director of Research at the University of Cambridge and Founder & Principal of UrbanBetter | Oni et al. She’s also an Extraordinary Professor in Architecture at the University of Pretoria and Honorary Associate Professor, University of Cape Town.
She works across policy, private and civil society sectors, designing planetary health into the fabric of rapidly growing cities. She is a Fellow of the International Science Council and a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader.
Source: LinkedIn
Dr. Kumi Naidoo
“You know how they say, ‘What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas?’ What happens in the Arctic doesn’t stay in the Arctic.” — Dr. Kumi Naidoo
Dr. Kumi Naidoo, an unwavering champion for human rights and the environment, has dedicated his life to driving education, development, and social justice initiatives. As the founding chair of Africans Rising, a Pan-African movement committed to promoting peace, justice, and dignity, he inspires people and organizations to unite for a better future.
Dr. Naidoo's advice to young people is simple but powerful: don't wait for adult politicians to lead the way. Leadership can come from anywhere, and the fight against catastrophic climate change is the most significant challenge humanity has ever faced. With his extraordinary vision, Dr. Naidoo urges everyone to step forward and become the leaders we need to secure life as we know it.
Piet Theron
Piet has said that his love for conservation is people-oriented more than anything and he feels that working with local communities is one of the most important aspects of his work.
Piet Theron, a Landscape Architect with a Bachelor in Landscape Architecture and an MPhil in Environmental Science, boasts over 26 years of experience in Southern Africa's natural resource management and social development projects. His forte lies in facilitating partnerships among governments, private sectors, and NGOs to plan, manage, and execute large and complex integrated conservation and rural development schemes at the landscape level.
Piet's expertise includes spearheading the Southern African Development Community's Transfrontier Conservation Areas Programme for over 15 years, where he has overseen the planning, development, and management of five Transfrontier conservation area projects. He has also played a crucial role in bilateral and trilateral collaborations on conservation management, wildlife crime, cross-border tourism, community benefits, and livelihood diversification.
Peter Fearnhead
“The global climate crisis is completely intertwined with the biodiversity crisis, and the destruction of nature and the biodiversity that makes up nature is one of the key factors that is actually causing the climate crisis … where wildlife thrives, people thrive.”
Peter Fearnhead co-founded African Parks and currently serves as its Chief Executive Officer. His passion for conservation began at a young age when he created a wildlife reserve on his school campus in Zimbabwe. Peter holds a BSc in Agric Economics from the University of Natal and an MSc in Agric and Resource Economics from the University of Oxford. He started his career as a strategy consultant at Deloitte before joining South African National Parks (SANParks) where he served in various capacities, including Resource Economist and Head of Commercial Development.
Throughout his career, Peter has been a trailblazer in conservation and has pioneered innovative strategies, including incorporating the commercial sector into conservation efforts. He implemented a successful commercialization program at SANParks, expanded national conservation through contract-park agreements, and established the African Parks Endowment Fund. Today, African Parks manages 22 protected areas in 12 countries, covering an impressive 20 million hectares.
Paul Maluleke
"As we enter water month we all play a part in making an impact downstream. The question is: will yours be a positive or negative one?"
Paul Maluleke is the visionary and Project Manager behind Alexandra Greening Route, an ecotourism venture in Johannesburg's Alexandra township. With his leadership, the Alex Water Warriors, a group of around 250 volunteers, gather twice a week to restore the river that flows through the township. Paul's passion for this project stems from the urgent need to combat the pollution caused by discarded plastic, which jeopardises the health and well-being of the local community. As an advocate for reviving tourism in the area, Paul recognises the significance of cleaning up the river and instilling new values in the younger generation.
Otsile Nkadimeng
“Young people are experiencing an existential fight. This is why we are getting involved. The biggest solution to climate change is youth.”
At just 19 years old, Otsile Nkadimeng has already made a name for himself as a passionate climate change activist hailing from Johannesburg. With a firm belief that youth must lead the charge in tackling this global crisis, Nkadimeng is determined to make a difference.
Drawing inspiration from the historic role of young people as catalysts for change, Nkadimeng has worked tirelessly with various NGOs to raise awareness and engage with others on the issue of climate change. This has included direct action, such as engaging with large corporations that contribute to the problem. Despite his youth, Nkadimeng's dedication to the cause has earned him a reputation as a powerful and effective voice in the fight against climate change. As he continues to advocate for change, it's clear that he will be a force to be reckoned with for years to come.
Siyabonga Ndlangamandla
“Just keep doing the right thing all the time someone is watching and it shall benefit someone or yourself one day (Just plant something or water a tree today that you might not enjoy its shadow but someone will).”
Siyabonga Ndlangamandla is a driven social agri-prenuer who finds inspiration in the community around him. He believes that even the smallest actions can make a significant impact, whether it's picking up litter, reporting illegal dumping or crime, or addressing poverty.
Siyabonga wakes up every day with a strong desire to make a positive change in someone's life, measuring his achievements by the number of lives he has touched and the amount of litter he has cleaned up. He is motivated by the belief that a brighter future is possible for everyone and is committed to doing his part to make it a reality. With a deep appreciation for the beauty of our planet and the people who inhabit it, Siyabonga is dedicated to making a difference in any way he can.
Chris Wild
“I don't like hard conversations but know they are often the most important. They don't get easier.”
Chris Wild currently serves as the Executive Director of Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA), having first become involved with the organization in 2008. Prior to his work in the environmental, sustainability, and advocacy space, Chris worked as an Analyst, drawing on his background in economics. However, he ultimately found greater purpose in social development, food security, and environmental issues. His passion for these causes has only grown since joining FTFA, and he is particularly interested in bio-intensive agriculture, bee-keeping, and technology. When asked about his ongoing motivation, Chris cites the dedication and hard work of his team as a constant source of inspiration.
Mina Guli
“We can do hard things, like solving the water crisis, or running 200 Marathons in one year!”
Mina Guli, an ultramarathoner and water campaigner. After a successful 15-year career in law, finance, and climate change, Mina established Thirst Foundation in 2012. The non-profit organisation aims to raise awareness, create urgency, and drive action on water conservation. Mina is a global leader who is committed to protecting the world's water resources.
Mina has completed several globally-recognised expeditions, including running 200 marathons in one year for the #RunBlue campaign in 2023. She ran 40 marathons across seven deserts in seven weeks for The 7 Deserts Run in 2016, and 40 marathons across six rivers in 40 days for The River Run in 2017. In 2018, Mina attempted 100 marathons in 100 days for the #RunningDry campaign but broke her leg on Marathon 62. Despite this setback, people worldwide supported her to complete the campaign, and through these expeditions, Mina has created a global community of water advocates in over 190 countries and territories.
Mina's leadership on water conservation has been widely acknowledged, including being recognised by Fortune as one of the greatest leaders in the world. She has spoken at the United Nations and has been regularly featured in major global, local, and regional media outlets worldwide. Mina has committed her life to the water crisis, believing that we can be the solution.
THE JOURNALISTS & MEDIA
Andiswa Matikinca
“None of us are getting out of this life thing alive so live. Live authentically so. Make your mistakes, forgive yourself and live. Love the people you claim to love and lessen the nonsense in your life.”
As an award-winning investigative journalist, Andiswa Matikinca is passionate about environmental reporting in Africa. She is an associate at Oxpeckers Investigative Environmental Journalism, where she uses data journalism and cutting-edge geo-narrative platforms to produce impactful stories. In her role as associate journalist, Andiswa managed the extractives data-driven digital tool, #MineAlert, which provided the basis for several of her award-winning investigations. Her exceptional work earned her the Vodacom Regional Young Journalist Award for the KwaZulu-Natal region in 2019. Currently, Andiswa is focused on her role as an environmental reporter and data journalist, where she continues to bring attention to critical issues affecting the environment.
Thabo Molelekwa
“My life revolves around journalism, I write impact/solution-driven articles in order to bring change to our communities.”
Thabo Molelekwa is a dedicated journalist and advocate with a passion for the environment. He recognises that the environment has a profound impact on people's lives, whether in cities or rural areas. With the growing threat of climate change due to the use of fossil fuels for generating electricity, Thabo is committed to reporting on these issues and educating people about the importance of transitioning to green energy.
However, he is also acutely aware of the impacts of such a transition on coal-affected communities, and strives to give voice to their concerns. Despite the challenges, Thabo finds inspiration in the ever-evolving field of climate, energy, and health, where new research and information constantly emerge, and he takes pride in breaking down complex topics into accessible information for the general public.
Fiona Macleod
“We've probably played a big role in making environmental journalism sexy.”
Fiona Macleod is an accomplished investigative environmental journalist who spearheads the utilisation of cutting-edge media tools to uncover eco-offenses in Southern Africa and beyond. As the editor of Oxpeckers Investigative Environmental Journalism, Macleod leads collaborations that have brought about transformative changes in people's lives, policies, and laws. Her innovative approach has been replicated in various parts of the world and has received worldwide acclaim. Macleod's expertise is not limited to Southern Africa, as she and her team have also developed novel tools to report on environmental crimes in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Her exceptional work has earned her several accolades, including the prestigious SAB EnviroMedia Written Media Award and the SAB EnviroMedia Print and Online Award. She also led Oxpeckers to win multiple awards, including the 2017 SAB Environmental Journalist of the Year and the CNN Multichoice African Environment Journalist of the Year Award in 2016. Before founding Oxpeckers, Macleod worked as an award-winning journalist and editor at various top media organizations in the region, including the Mail & Guardian, where she served as the environment editor for ten years.
Lerato Mutsila
“SA will not have a green future as long as Mr. clean coal is at the helm.”
Lerato Mutsila is a skilled climate justice and environmental journalist trained in multimedia storytelling. With a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, she majored in broadcast journalism, political science, and communication at Pearson Institute of Higher Education in 2021. In August 2022, she joined the current affairs desk at Briefly News. Lerato is a proud fellow of the 2021/2022 Young African Journalists Acceleration Programme, which focused on training African journalists in climate journalism. She has a passion for both written and visual storytelling and excels at depicting stories in a captivating manner.
Andy Muranda
“Starting Ilona Green helped me find 'cents in waste' and embark on a new journey in mitigating environmental desolation.”
Andy Muranda, a director at Ilona Green and Botjilo Bethu, is captivated by complex problems and strives to promote social and ecological resilience. He seeks to demystify sustainability while indulging in his creative passion for storytelling and photography. Andy's professional focus is on the intersection of the environment, social issues, and development, and he enjoys lecturing on sustainability, energy cultures, and media.
When not immersed in his work, Andy delights in the mysteries and enchantment of life, family, people, culture, and the great outdoors. He is a passionate advocate for shared wisdom on sustainability matters and has produced independent content for TV media since 2002, even managing a collection centre for recyclable waste along the way.
Armand Hough
“The next few years will be absolutely critical to our environment. I would like to bear witness to who played a role in doing their part to save the planet from ourselves.”
Armand Hough is a photojournalist with a particular interest in the advocacy, environmental, and sustainability space. With climate change looming as the most significant story of the century, Armand feels compelled to uncover and tell this story. What motivates him to keep going is the inspiring sight of people who take a bold stand against authority to support their beliefs. Through his lens, Armand captures the beauty of the natural world and the struggles of those fighting to protect it, sharing their stories nationally and globally.
Ilham Rawoot
“You need to divest from fossil fuel companies because that’s the only way they are going to change.”
Ilham Rawoot is a dedicated climate justice activist fighting against corporate impunity. She leads the international efforts of the Say No to Gas! Campaign, in partnership with JA!, a Mozambican organization, and various global allies. Ilham works for Justiça Ambiental/Friends of the Earth Mozambique, a non-governmental organization that focuses on the detrimental impact of Mozambique's unsustainable and uncontrolled development on the environment, climate, and society.
Ilham's advocacy for affected individuals and journalists who oppose gas extraction projects is especially vital, given the arrest and persecution of those who speak out in Mozambique. Foreign corporations and banks, including Dutch bank ING, finance these gas projects, and Ilham urges Dutch citizens to take action. Ilham's mission is to create a world where corporations are accountable for their actions, unable to cause harm to the planet, humanity, and the climate with impunity.
Wendy Knowler
“The situation is pretty dire and we need to make some changes to reduce what is going to landfill, and make them pretty quickly. Those of us who do have a platform should use it to raise the consciousness little by little in the hope that, in South Africa at least, we make some difference.”
Wendy Knowler, an award-winning consumer journalist, has shed light on conscious consumption and recycling through her factful print, digital, and radio journalism. Her balanced approach to the plastics issue has helped audiences better comprehend this complex topic. Wendy has received numerous media awards for her consumer exposés, including the Vodacom Journalist of the Year awards and the national Petco (Plastic Recycling SA) Media Spotlight award in 2019. She strives to create awareness about recycling issues, dispel myths, shame companies that design packaging without recycling in mind, and inspire consumers to do their part.
Don Pinnock
“The problems of human impact on the natural world are too big, too complex for ordinary people like us to deal with. If we care, we have to rely on scientists, politicians, lobbyists, NGOs and global multilateral conferences to put things right.”
Don Pinnock is an accomplished writer, criminologist, and photographer with 17 books to his credit, covering diverse topics such as history, politics, gangs, and science. As an associate of Southern Write, a prestigious group of natural history writers and photographers in Africa, he has demonstrated his expertise in travel and nature writing. With a diverse background that includes being an electronic engineer, a lecturer in journalism and criminology, a consultant to the Mandela government, a professional yachtsman, an explorer, and even a cable-car operator on the Rock of Gibraltar, Don brings a unique perspective to his work. His current focus is on the impact of human activity on the planet, a subject about which he is passionate.
Sipho Kings
"If we expect solutions to the climate crisis to be determined exclusively by the same corporations and governments, then we have good reason to be pessimistic about the future."
Meet Sipho Kings, the Editorial Director at The Continent and former acting editor-in-chief of the Mail & Guardian. Hailing from eSwatini, Sipho grew up in a small village in Botswana and pursued his education in Limpopo. With a deep passion for addressing critical issues such as climate change, Sipho started his career as an intern at the Mail & Guardian, where he eventually became the paper's sole environment reporter for several years. His unwavering dedication to putting climate change at the forefront of journalism has seen him co-author the book “South Africa’s Survival Guide to Climate Change” and earned him numerous accolades, including a journalism fellowship at Harvard University.
Leonie Joubert
“We need a collective experience of the overview effect. This isn’t just a call for a bunny-hugging value system change. It’s a reminder that we need to shift our entire political economy to reflect the immutable scientific truth that our survival is embedded in the laws of nature.”
Meet Leonie Joubert, a science writer based in Cape Town, who grapples with pressing environmental and social justice issues of our time. With over two decades of experience, she's an expert in pollution, specifically the systems-collapsing effects of aggressive neo-liberal capitalism. She uses her expertise to shed light on topics such as climate collapse, environmental change, energy policy, urban development, and the hunger-obesity poverty paradox.
Leonie's preferred writing style is long-form journalistic storytelling that intertwines personal anecdotes and scientific complexities. She has published books, journalism pieces, creative non-fiction, and has even hosted podcasts and given public speeches. Recently, she's worked on assignments for National Geographic magazine and its digital platform. Leonie is both in awe of our planet and aware of the urgent need to share stories that highlight the impact of our destructive practices on it.
Nick Hedley
“The energy transition is about more than just tackling climate change. It's also an opportunity to create a fairer economy, with social ownership of electricity infrastructure, and to reduce the volatility and cost of energy. For those who are willing to participate, there are so many potential benefits to households and society in the transition.”
Nick Hedley is a columnist, journalist, and researcher with a passion for climate issues. His work in the environmental/sustainability/advocacy space began after delving into the science of climate change, which led him to become an activist. With the scale of the problem fully grasped, it became difficult for him not to get involved. Nick is inspired to continue his work by the little pockets of progress he sees all around the world, proving that the climate crisis can be overcome.
THE RESEARCHERS & ACADEMIA
Lee-Ann Sade Modley
“I believe in making an impact on society through my research. I want my research to reach different communities in different ways so I always ensure that my community-based projects are inclusive and impactful.”
Meet Lee-Ann Modley, a distinguished Senior Lecturer and Deputy HoD at the University of Johannesburg's Faculty of Science. Within the Department of Geography, Environmental Management, and Energy Studies, Lee-Ann has established herself as a leading expert in the field of environmental management, sustainability, and advocacy.
Her passion for this line of work dates back 11 years, when she earned her master's degree in environmental management. Since then, Lee-Ann has remained deeply committed to making a positive impact in the communities she serves. She has already witnessed two of her projects create significant change, addressing the urgent need for clean water and sanitation in underprivileged areas.
Lee-Ann's research is focused on co-operation with stakeholders at various levels, promoting inclusive water resource management, and advocating for marginalized communities to have access to clean water and decent sanitation. Witnessing the tangible difference her work has made inspires Lee-Ann to push harder, striving for even greater progress in her efforts to provide vital resources to those who need them most.
Claire Davis-Reddy
“The earth does not belong to man, man belongs to the earth. All things are connected like the blood that unites one family. Man did not weave the web of life, he is merely a strand in it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself.”
Meet Claire Davis-Reddy, a seasoned Data Product Specialist with 15 years of experience in geospatial data management, analysis, and product development. Claire's passion for environmental sustainability and advocacy stems from her upbringing on a farm where she learned the importance of caring for animals, sustainable farming practices, and reducing waste.
Her values and commitment to the environment inspire her to make a positive impact every day. Claire believes that even the smallest actions can create a ripple effect and contribute to a better world for people, animals, and the planet.
Ayakha Melithafa
“We, as society, have a chance now to change things.”
Ayakha Melithafa is a renowned climate justice activist, known for her tireless advocacy work in the environmental and sustainability space. She serves as a youth commissioner on the South African Climate commission and is the founder of the Ayakha Melithafa Foundation.
As the youngest commissioner on the Presidential Climate commission in South Africa, Ayakha has been a public representative of the African Climate Alliance. She is a recipient of several awards, including the Women of Firsts Award from the Charlotte Mannya Maxeke Institute and was nominated as one of South Africa’s Most Powerful Women by the Mail and Guardian in 2020.
Ayakha's mission is to address the greatest ecological crisis of our time and enable leaders to drive scalable, collaborative action for systemic change. Her activism aims to inspire South African youth voices towards addressing key issues on creating a sustainable, low carbon future and to exert pressure on big emitters to stop blocking global climate action. Ayakha draws inspiration from her mother, who is a farmer and continues to be affected by climate change.
Alex Lenferna
“Today, our youth face an interconnected and compounding crisis of climate change, unemployment, poverty and inequality. These four crises do not often get connected, and if we fail to act on climate change, we will deepen the other three crises.”
Alex Lenferna is a post-doctoral fellow at Nelson Mandela University specializing in Development Studies. His research centers around realizing a radical climate justice agenda for South Africa, one of the world's most polluted and unequal countries. As the secretary of the Climate Justice Coalition, he collaborates with civil society, grassroots, trade union, and community-based organizations to push for transformative climate justice policies. Prior to this, Alex worked as a climate justice campaigner with 350Africa.org, a non-profit organization committed to building a global grassroots climate justice movement. He holds a PhD in climate justice from the University of Washington and is a Mandela Rhodes and Fulbright scholar.
Ndivhuho Raphulu
“Nature is the best technology we have.”
Ndivhuho Raphulu is an accomplished sustainability expert with extensive experience directing prominent environmental organizations in South Africa. He currently serves as the Director of the National Cleaner Production Centre South Africa and oversees the RECP Programme for the Department of Trade and Industry. Prior to this, he held the position of Senior Sustainability Advisor at Eskom, the national power utility. With a degree in Environmental Science and Development Studies, Ndivhuho is a respected member of the African Roundtable on Sustainable Consumption and Production and has served as its former President. He also holds the position of Chairman of the European Union-African Union Partnership on SCP and co-chairs the Steering Committee of the African Eco-Labelling Project. In addition to his leadership roles, he actively serves on the boards of several national trusts and organisations.
Prof. Linda Godfrey
"Youngsters are growing up in this environment of convenience, of single use, of this throwaway society, of a very linear environment of consumption and disposable - that has to change."
With expertise in integrated waste management, Prof. Linda Godfrey is a principal researcher at the Council for Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) and an associate professor at North-West University. She heads up the Waste Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Roadmap Implementation Unit for the Department of Science and Technology.
Prof. Godfrey has provided strategic input in waste and green economy initiatives for several organizations, including the United Nations and the Development Bank of South Africa. She has authored or co-authored over 125 research and contract specialist reports, 25 international and local conference papers, 12 peer-reviewed journal papers, and five book chapters. Additionally, Prof. Godfrey has published numerous popular articles and policy briefs on waste management, reflecting her passion for science communication.
Lesley Green
“It is the logic of the Anthropocene in which the growth of capital is at the expense of soil and water.”
Lesley Green is an accomplished Professor of Anthropology in the School of African and Gender Studies, Anthropology, and Linguistics at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. She also serves as the Director of Environmental Humanities South, where she focuses primarily on the environmental humanities. This interdisciplinary work goes beyond simply combining fields, as Green explores how the concept of climate change and the Anthropocene challenge the traditional divisions between sciences and humanities, prompting a rethinking of research practices and intellectual legacies.
She has devoted her attention to examining how disciplinary knowledge from fields such as history, geography, and philosophy can engage with alternative worldviews, such as those found in Palikur stories that she and David Green collected in Amapa, Brazil from 1997-2008. This work is showcased in her forthcoming publication, "Knowing the Day, Knowing the World: Engaging Amerindian Thought in Public Archaeology," co-authored with David Green and set to be published by Arizona University Press.
From conservation and biology to renewable energy and recycling and waste management, South Africa is fortunate to have some of the most passionate and dedicated eco-advocates in the world. Through their tireless efforts, they have made a positive impact on the environment and inspired countless others to follow in their footsteps.
By supporting and connecting with these advocates, we can all play a part in creating a brighter, greener, and more sustainable future for generations to come.
Is anyone missing from our list? Pop us an email at hello@treeshake.com to let us know, so that we can continue celebrating South Africa’s top eco-advocates.
Cityzens4CleanAir: The Power of Citizen Science in Tackling Air Pollution
Urban Better mobilised a small group of clean air and public health advocates to organize dozens of events across three African countries, while gaining support from policy-makers, huge social media reach, and mainstream media coverage.
By engaging young people in data collection and public mobilisation, the Cityzens4CleanAir campaign, led by Urban Better, generated valuable insights into local air quality in Accra, Lagos, and Cape Town, and informed action to improve it.
Air Pollution is a Major Issue - for public health and climate
Climate action can be such a nebulous issue for people to grapple with, but air quality makes it tangible. It’s at the intersection of health and wellbeing. We can tangibly see it, measure it, and explain the personal and community impacts of it. So it’s one of the best ways to get people to notice and take action on climate.
It’s no secret that air pollution impacts health and wellbeing. But working on this issue made us more aware of just how damaging it can be. Breathing polluted air can cause respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer, as well as heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Air pollution can also make allergies and asthma worse, impede children’s ability to concentrate, and reduce our life expectancy.
Of course, air pollution also impacts our climate & environment. The same sources of pollution that damage our health also tend to damage the environment and contribute to climate change. But unlike rising sea levels, or fractions of a degree in global warming, this is something that can be tangibly seen and acted on at a local level.
Citizenship in Action
The first step to creating change is to understand the issue. In this case, this was about gathering evidence of air pollution and the causes thereof in particular communities.
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Citizen science engages the public in the process of collecting and interpreting data, which can increase awareness of air quality issues and empower individuals to take action to address them.
This approach also allows for more localized and targeted monitoring, which can provide a more accurate picture of air quality in specific areas.
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Decentralized Air Quality monitoring uses portable air quality sensors.
This approach has a number of advantages over installed air quality sensors: it costs less to deploy; it is adaptable to needs; and it can provide more datapoints across a wider area.
This was done by equipping young people with wearable air quality monitors, which they wore while traversing local run routes. If their Air Quality monitor picked up particularly poor air quality in a particular place, then they were asked to look for the source of the pollution.
For example, they might see that the pollution was coming from people burning rubbish on the side of the road. This evidence could then be presented to local municipalities and action could be taken to address the cause.
This specificity is empowering to communities and decision-makers. It takes the conversation from general asks like “reduce air pollution to improve public health” to specifics like “collect trash more frequently in Zone B so that residents don’t have to burn it themselves”.
Data with Personality
The Cityzens4CleanAir campaign demonstrates many of the principles of advocacy that we stand for at Treeshake.
This is not about speaking on behalf of people in communities, it’s about equipping people in communities to discover and speak about their own issues.
It’s uses technology to make a credible point about a relevant issue. Without data, we’re just another group of people with an opinion. With credible data combined with testimony, we can engage policy-makers.
It gets people physically involved in making a difference on the ground, together.
It takes a big issue, air quality, and makes it hyper-local. Highlighting and tackling the complexity of implementation to make tangible recommendations for change.
It combined hard data with photos, videos, and testimony from real people from the affected communities to make the issue of air quality real and relateable. This is the essence of storymaking.
Involving a small group of well trained advocates will provide better traction for an emerging movement than simply blasting out messaging to lots of people who aren't as deeply engaged.
Key Results
Through our small groups of dedicated group leaders in each city, we were able to organise dozens of events in three cities; gain the support of policy-makers; and secure mainstream media coverage.
Around 300 people participated in the data gathering runs in Lagos, Cape Town, and Accra between September and November 2022. This included prominent figures like Cape Town Mayor Geordin Gwyn Hill-Lewis, and Lagos State Health Commissioner Akin Abayomi.
Our advocacy toolkit made it easier for our “cityzens” to help spread the message online, using the hashtag #Cityzens4CleanAir, as well as #CleanAirAccra, #CleanAirCapeTown, or #CleanAirLagos. This helped push the campaign's organic online reach to over 2.5 million people. Notable supporters on social media included WHO Director of the Public Health Maria Neira; president of the Youth Envoy for COP27 Omnia El Omrani; as well as notable climate solutions platform We Don't Have Time.
We got 28 pieces of mainstream media coverage across the continent, including three top tier features on Al Jazeera (with renowned presenter Femi Oke and Maria Figueres, the architect of the Paris Climate Agreement), the BBC, the Guardian, and WEF. This was achieved with precision outreach to individual journalists, with personal follow-ups rather than generalised blasting out of press releases
Finally, the campaign results were presented to influential in-person audiences at the UN’s COP27 meeting in Egypt; and at the World Science Forum in Cape Town. Results were presented by the run leaders themselves, with the support of Dr Tolullah Oni & Dr Monika Kamkuemah of Urban Better.
The Guardian: “A precision approach to activism’: distance runners join fight against Africa’s air pollution”
Explore the Findings from the Project
The report is based on PM2.5 and NO2 air quality data collected by the citizen scientists who participated in the campaign across the various cities. The data used to create this report was generated by a number of low-cost air quality monitoring devices i.e Flow2 by Plume Labs and Airbeam devices which were carried by the citizen scientists during the campaign runs. This was supplemented by data from regulatory monitors operated by the city authorities.
Read More on the UrbanBetter website 🔗
Treeshake Team
Strategy: Dave Duarte
Content & Community: Mwabi Jere
PR: Aithne Molotsane
In partnership with Y-Labs
Plant Power - 50 Inspiring SA Organisations to celebrate and support
It takes a collective effort from a number of dedicated individuals and organisations to achieve solutions to many of the world’s most pressing problems - deforestation, climate change and the extinction of species just to name a few. The organisations on this list are at the forefront of the plant-based movement in South Africa.
The world is changing, and so is the way we think about our food choices. From plant-based burgers to dairy-free milk alternatives, it has become easier than ever to ditch animal products and adopt a more compassionate and ethical approach to eating. But, a plant-based lifestyle is no longer just about the food or just a dietary preference, it's a lifestyle and a movement that's gaining momentum globally, and for a good reason. Ranging from improved well-being and mental health to mitigating environmental concerns and improving the lives of farm animals, the results of making even the smallest changes in the way you eat and live can add up to massive changes.
However, change cannot happen overnight. It takes a collective effort from a number of dedicated individuals and organisations to achieve solutions to many of the world’s most pressing problems - deforestation, climate change and the extinction of species just to name a few. The organisations on this list are at the forefront of the movement and have tirelessly dedicated themselves to making the world a kinder, safer and healthier place through their advocacy of a plant-based lifestyle.
Whether you are a seasoned vegan or just curious about this movement, it's clear that the work of these organisations is having a profound impact on our world and will continue to shape the future of our planet. So how can you help? All you need to do is support them. Whether it be through donations, volunteering your time and skills, or simply spreading the word about their efforts, every little bit counts.
Source: Authentic Roots
Authentic Roots
Authentic Roots is a bespoke gift and plantable children's book company dedicated to eco-friendliness and animal welfare. Their gifts are crafted from trendsetting materials such as pineapple leather, recycled plastic and cotton, and the plantable storybook is educational and made from recycled paper embedded with seeds for lettuce and tomato. Supporting local artisans, all products are produced locally.
The company's founder, Tanya van Rees, is a passionate humanitarian who prioritizes sustainability and community development in her business practices. Inspiration is drawn from nature and a conscious living philosophy. Their product line includes Pinatex (made from natural, sustainable pineapple leaf fibres), recycled plastic PET fabric, 100% cotton totes and eye pillows, and 100% biodegradable picnic and gin sets. The latest addition, a handmade plantable storybook, brings together eco-consciousness and childhood education.
Savannah Greeff Photography
Nick and Nichol’s
Nick and Nicole, a husband-and-wife artist team, are committed to healing the planet and reducing pollution through their upcycled creations. They transform discarded inner tubes from car and truck tires into stylish designer bags, shoes, homeware, and accessories that resemble leather, earning them the title of "Vegan Leather" from many customers. After honing their skills for two years in a garage, they opened a studio shop at Caster Bridge in White River, Mpumalanga, where they met global customers and introduced their products to the world. However, with the pandemic and a desire to connect with more customers and create more awareness around who they are and what they do, they closed the shop and went online in 2020.
Now, Nick and Nicole have purchased a hectare of land near the beautiful Makhonjwa Mountains in Mpumalanga, South Africa, and have acquired 14 new machines to expand their business, increase environmental conservation, and empower a local impoverished community all at the same time. They plan to build a workshop, studio, and training centre and transfer skills to the young people in the area, creating employment for at least 25 people. To make this vision a reality, they need help with infrastructure such as Wendy Houses to put their 14 machines in, solar power, a vehicle for collecting raw materials, and plumbing facilities. By helping to build this workshop, they can start making beautiful creations right away and reduce the number of inner tubes that end up in landfills. You can watch their story here. If you would like to support their cause, please visit their Patreon page.
South African Vegan Society
The South African Vegan Society is a volunteer organisation that promotes the vegan lifestyle through public outreach, resource distribution, product endorsement, and support for those who choose this way of life. Founded in 2007 by a group of passionate activists, the Society has been instrumental in creating awareness and increasing knowledge about veganism in South Africa. Today, it aims to make the vegan lifestyle accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable for all South Africans.
In addition to its outreach efforts, the South African Vegan Society also endorses products and services that align with its mission. The Society hopes to continue being a part of the broader community of activists working towards welfare, liberation, and social justice by promoting veganism as an ethical baseline. Through its website, the South African Vegan Society provides people with the information they need to embrace and maintain a vegan lifestyle.
The Green Dietitian
The Green Dietitian, a dynamic duo made up of Jessica Kotlowitz and Nadia Mulder, is leading the charge in plant-based and vegan nutrition in Cape Town's Sea Point. As registered dietitians, they bring a wealth of knowledge to the table and are dedicated to helping clients of all dietary backgrounds achieve their health and wellness goals. They believe in the principles of body and food neutrality, promoting food freedom and intuitive eating to build positive relationships with food.
These experts also support a long-term approach to veganism that dispels any myths about the lifestyle and keeps vegans healthy at all ages. Staying at the forefront of plant-based nutrition research, they are adept at translating complex science into practical and easy-to-understand information for all. The Green Dietitians are determined to bust nutrition myths and educate both the public and their fellow healthcare colleagues.
Source: TedxCapeTown
ProVeg South Africa
ProVeg South Africa is an organisation that seeks to revolutionise the global food system by introducing plant-based and cultured alternatives to animal-based products. They recognise that many of the world's most pressing issues are linked to the food we consume, and are passionate about educating people on the positive changes they can make to the planet, animals, and themselves with their dietary choices. By empowering people to make conscious, healthy decisions about what they put on their plate, ProVeg works towards a future where everyone can enjoy delicious and nutritious food that is beneficial to all.
Partnering closely with international decision-making bodies, governments, food producers, investors, the media, and the general public, ProVeg South Africa works towards a future where everyone can enjoy delicious and nutritious food that is beneficial to all and to fulfil their ultimate mission: to reduce the global consumption of animals by 50% by 2040.
Source: Facebook Page
Mahala Botanicals
Mahala Botanicals is a premium non-alcoholic, triple-distilled spirit that offers a unique taste experience for health-conscious and mindful consumers. From farm to glass, the entire process of foraging botanicals to distillation is owned and operated by the company, using custom-built vacuum stills in South Africa.
Master Distiller, Danielle Schoeman, started experimenting with various alcohol-free distilled spirits in 2020, and after foraging botanicals from her family farm in the Cape, she discovered the perfect recipe for Mahala Botanical. The spirit is made using nine different botanicals, some of which are indigenous to the Western Cape, and as the name Mahala, meaning “free” in Zulu suggests, is free from sugar, alcohol, colourants, and artificial flavours. The spirits are also gluten and vegan-friendly, offering a sophisticated alternative to alcoholic beverages.
Not only does Mahala produce premium non-alcoholic spirits, but it is a socially responsible business that is dedicated to empowering previously disadvantaged individuals by offering them employment opportunities. They also support local workers, such as The Sparrow Society, who collaborate with Mahala to create stunning product display bags. Additionally, a portion of their sales in South Africa goes to The Botanical Society of South Africa, an organisation that works tirelessly to conserve South Africa's remarkable plant diversity and ecosystems through biodiversity conservation efforts.
PAN South Africa
PAN (Physicians Association for Nutrition) South Africa was established in 2020 with the goal of providing healthcare professionals with access to plant-based nutrition information. Since then, PAN South Africa has hosted two webinars on plant-based nutrition and climate change and is working to educate medical students. Its mission is to address the climate crisis and pandemic risk associated with the current food system and equip healthcare professionals with the tools to treat patients through nutrition.
PAN South Africa is constantly expanding, working to create a national network of physicians, dieticians, medical students, and other healthcare workers, who collaborate with an international community to influence policy-makers and create positive change in food environments. By 2050, PAN South Africa hopes to eliminate diet-related deaths.
Source: Google
Oh my cluck
Oh My Cluck is a team of innovative minds with a mission to revolutionize the quality of vegan products grown and produced locally in South Africa. They strive to create plant-based, chickless products that leave a lasting impression, using only the finest ingredients.
From their crispy 100% vegan chick'un to their groundbreaking fry-at-home vegan eggs, Oh My Cluck has you covered for all your chickless needs. Their products are 100% vegan, gluten-free and made without causing harm to any animals.
Source: Facebook Page
Grumpy and Runt
Grumpy & Runt is a Cape Town-based deli and vegan bakery that specializes in hand-crafted donuts (or doughnuts). Their donuts are made fresh daily, with a rotating selection of 8 unique flavours that change every Tuesday. They blend classic donut flavours with traditional desserts, nostalgic treats, South African classics, French pastries and even have a donut waffle, called the "Do-Waffle".
In addition to their donuts, Grumpy & Runt also offers vegan New York-style deli food, baked goods and daily provisions. They strive to make everything from scratch, including their vegan butter, vegan cheese, vegan deli meats, dough, and mayonnaise, for an ethical and indulgent vegan experience. All their donuts are made using 100% natural ingredients and require 18 hours of preparation. They also serve a unique blend of Single Origin coffee, micro-roasted to perfection and produced in collaboration with Mikro Roastery in Hermanus, making it the perfect partner for plant-based Mylk.
Vegan Street Food
Vegan Street Food, located in Observatory, Cape Town, is the epitome of plant-based fusion cuisine. Owners Braidy and her mother Lee-Ann are passionate vegans committed to creating exciting vegan experiences and spreading the love for the vegan movement. With a mission rooted in heart, body, and soul, they offer 100% vegan cuisine and believe in making a positive impact.
Established in 2016, Vegan Street Food started as a small, family-owned cafe at local markets and has since grown into a bespoke eatery with grand ambitions. Lee and Braidy are continuously striving to innovate new and exciting products and events to expand awareness of the vegan philosophy far and wide. With their passion and expertise, they are making a difference in their local community and the vegan world.
Source: Facebook Page
Muiz Kitchen
Muiz Kitchen is a thriving community vegan kitchen located in Muizenberg. This kitchen serves as a hub of nutritious, plant-based meals that are both affordable and accessible to the community. Muiz Kitchen is designed to be a space of growth, learning, and sharing where everyone is welcome to come and participate.
The kitchen works closely with the Muizenberg Community Garden and local ingredient suppliers to promote economic growth and build relationships for a more resilient future. The unique alternative exchange system, Muiz Coin, allows individuals to earn meals through volunteering in the kitchen or garden or participating in weekly street cleanups.
In addition to co-hosting nutritional workshops with Spaza Hub, Muiz Kitchen offers a variety of affordable meal options with different payment options, freezer meals, weekly veg boxes, catering services for schools, events and celebrations, and so much more.
Source: Mzansi Meat Co.
Mzansi Meat Co
Mzansi Meat Co. was established with the aim of revolutionizing the food system and the way meat is produced. The company is devoted to bringing the best of Mzansi to the table through healthy, affordable, and accessible meat. With the help of science, they have been able to make real meat with less fat, while maintaining the integrity of its taste. Additionally, cultivated meat is expected to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture by using much less land and water, making production more cost-efficient.
Mzansi Meat Co. strongly believes that people can still enjoy their favorite foods without jeopardizing the environment and is determined to make a real impact in the food industry. By introducing cultivated meat to the African continent, they are striving towards long-term food security. The company's philosophy is rooted in a harm-free approach, and their mission is to create an ecosystem that will help to achieve just that.
Source: Facebook Page
Herbivore Earth Foods
Herbivore Earthfoods, based in Cape Town, offers plant-based and vegan products that are both healthy and affordable. Since 2014, the company has been committed to making plant-based foods accessible in South Africa and to reducing waste by using compostable packaging.
Look for the Soil-to-Soil logo on each product to know that it is environmentally friendly. Herbivore Earthfoods is leading the way in the plant-based revolution, making it easier for consumers to make sustainable choices.
Source: Facebook Page
Fry Family Food Co
The Fry Family Food Co. was founded in 1991 with the goal of creating nutritious plant-based products for their family who were passionate about following a vegan diet. At the time, the idea of plant-based meat alternatives was a novel concept. However, with determination and a passion for plant-based living, they started crafting quality vegan meat alternatives that were comparable in taste and texture to real meat.
Over the last three decades, the Fry's brand has become a leader in the vegan food industry, with over 40 different products available in more than 40 countries. The company's focus remains on crafting quality meat alternatives made from the best plant proteins sourced from ethical and non-GM sources. Each product is rigorously tested and certified free from pesticides, ensuring that customers receive only the best vegan products.
The Fry's family's unwavering commitment to creating food that they would be proud to feed their own family has not wavered in the last thirty years. They have been at the forefront of the vegan movement, collaborating with NGOs, activists, advocacy groups, and leading vegan influencers to establish a global vegan standard. Fry's remains dedicated to bringing the best plant-based products to the world, and their passion for veganism continues to drive their mission forward.
Source: Facebook Page
Vegan SA
Vegan SA is the ultimate guide for South African vegans, offering a comprehensive directory of vegan-friendly restaurants, shops, products, and accommodation. The website is dedicated to making life easier for vegans in South Africa, providing resources and support for an enjoyable and fulfilling life. With a focus on connecting vegans from all over the country, the directory helps vegans find like-minded people and businesses, and stay up-to-date on the latest news and changes in the vegan movement.
Vegan SA operates as a self-funded organisation, relying on volunteers to keep the directory running. They welcome contributions and support from their community, especially those who are willing to act as volunteer managers for listings in their own regions. As part of the global vegan movement, they believe that the more organized their efforts are, the more effective and successful they will become, without compromising their ethical values.
Source: Facebook Page
Fauxmage Nut Cheese
Fauxmage is a gourmet food brand that brings together the worlds of healthy eating and decadent indulgence. They believe in the transformative power of food and strive to make the world a better place through their offerings. Their dairy-free cheese, made from nutrient-rich cashews, is the epitome of this belief, offering delicious and healthy options to those who are conscious of their health and the environment.
With a focus on local, wholesome, and ethical ingredients, Fauxmage prioritizes both taste and sustainability in its products. They source locally whenever possible, growing their own herbs in their back garden and incorporating local elements into their recipes. Their cheeses are also fermented, incorporating bioactive probiotics for a gut-friendly option.
At Fauxmage, animal welfare is a top priority. They avoid using any animal products in their cheeses, making them suitable for vegans and steer clear of harmful palm oil. Their cheeses are made by hand in small batches, ensuring that each bite is a unique flavour experience.
Source: Facebook Page
The Honest Apron
The Honest Apron (THA) is a vegan online bakery based in the East Rand of Johannesburg, South Africa that offers a wide range of delicious vegan baked goods. From Cupcakes, Sugar Cookies, Ganache Tartlets, Lamingtons, Milk Tart, Lemon Meringue, and Malva Pudding, THA is a haven for sweet treat lovers. But the offerings don't stop there. The bakery also offers stunning cakes in Vanilla, Chocolate, and Red Velvet, with fillings of Berry Compote, Salted Caramel, Chocolate Ganache, or Lemon Curd.
Baking without eggs is a challenge that THA has embraced, using egg replacements such as aquafaba, flax meal, applesauce, chia seeds, and more, to create delectable baked goods that are not only delicious but also cruelty-free. With a passion for creating edible works of art, THA’s owner Angelique is dedicated to bringing joy to people through her baked creations.
Source: ThundaFund Project
All things Earthly SA
All Things Earthly is an organic and ethical shop located in Noordhoek that provides customers with a selection of clean, natural, and locally sourced products. From organic produce, chemical-free groceries, cruelty-free body care, to eco-friendly household items, the store offers a range of options for a sustainable lifestyle.
Owners Talitha Kotze and Diane Willson du Toit, both mothers, have a passion for promoting a future that benefits both their children and the planet. They are committed to providing products free from preservatives, additives, and cruelty, while prioritizing locally sourced and organic options. With everything from dairy, eggs, snacks, body care, gifts, and more, All Things Earthly is a one-stop shop for those seeking a healthier and more mindful lifestyle.
Source: Love in A Bowl
Love in a bowl
The Love in a Bowl initiative in Hout Bay is a collaboration that brings communities together to grow and share organic produce from community farms. They are committed to providing fresh, healthy veggies for local consumers and distributing them to those who are most vulnerable in the town. By growing and sharing these vegetables, the community is creating a positive change in their lives, village, and the world. The community of Hout Bay believes in the power of love and that if one person goes hungry, they all do.
By expanding their 96 veggie circles, Love in a Bowl hopes to offer employment and training to 55 Hout Bay residents while providing nutritious food to 6,000 vulnerable children and elderly. The initiative transformed into a dynamic new programme recently, merging with Hout Bay’s COURAGE Initiative, originally founded to address hunger during the COVID lockdown.
Source: Facebook Page
Vegan Shop
Vegan Shop is the ultimate destination for vegan grocery shopping in South Africa. The store offers a variety of gluten-free, organic, and non-GMO options, making it suitable for all vegans. Not only are all products available online, but it also the Vegan Shop offers a walk-in store experience in Pretoria, making it easily accessible for all.
The store offers convenient delivery options throughout South Africa, and a range of payment methods, including KoopKrag. Customers can browse through the product gallery to get a taste of the amazing products on offer. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just starting out, Vegan Shop is the perfect place to start one’s journey.
Source: Facebook Page
Grumpy Snacks
Grumpy Snacks is a brand that produces healthier grab-and-go snacks that don't compromise on taste or break the bank. Snacking is a daily routine for many, and hunger can quickly turn into grumpiness. Grumpy Snacks offers an alternative to the standard unhealthy ready-to-eat options.
Their focus is on chickpea roasting, which they have perfected over months in their kitchen. The chickpeas are dry-roasted with minimal oil and spices, or coated in dairy-free vegan chocolate. All ingredients used are natural and the roasting process is optimized for maximum nutritional absorption.
Source: Facebook Page
The Gypsy Kitchen SA (Megan Wessels)
Megan Wessels, the mastermind behind The Gypsy Kitchen, is a self-taught baker who has made a name for herself as a boss lady in the world of cruelty-free baking. With a passion for creating delicious treats that make people feel good, Megan has been changing the world one cupcake at a time since the birth of The Gypsy Kitchen in 2016.
The journey began when Megan fell for a boy who had a sweet tooth and she wanted to impress him with her baking skills. Despite having no prior experience in the kitchen, Megan took on the challenge and perfecting her very first product, the Choc Chip cookie. Little did she know, this pursuit would turn into a lifelong passion for baking and cruelty-free recipes.
The Gypsy Kitchen is a testament to Megan's passion for baking and her commitment to making the world a sweeter place. And as a happy coincidence, she married the boy she baked for and together they have a beautiful vegan family.
Source: Facebook Page
On the Green Side
On the Green Side, established in 2018 in Western Cape, South Africa, was born from a chance encounter between a visionary food scientist and an innovative farmer over a bottle of wine. The two combined their expertise to bring their shared dream to life - a plan to revolutionize the way we eat for a healthier and more sustainable future. With a focus on chicken-inspired, plant-based protein products that are both delicious and effortless to prepare, On the Green Side is leading the way in version 2.0 of plant-based eating.
The company recognizes that reducing our consumption of meat is one of the most impactful choices we can make for our health, the environment, and all living creatures. On the Green Side wants to create a world where technology and taste come together to make a more fair global food system with easy, affordable plant-based options for everyone. Its goal is to encourage people to live more sustainably by giving them easy, tasty meat-free meals.
Source: Facebook Page
The Fussy Vegan
Established in 2018, The Fussy Vegan has been at the forefront of spreading awareness about the vegan lifestyle. With a mission to educate people about the ethical and environmental benefits of veganism, the organisation has been a vocal advocate for the rights of animals. The Fussy Vegan is dedicated to creating a welcoming community for all those who choose to embrace a plant-based lifestyle, regardless of their dietary preferences or labels.
The Fussy Vegan invites everyone to challenge the norm and incorporate more plant-based meals into their daily routines, for the well-being of the animals, the planet, and themselves. With a passion to disrupt and inspire, The Fussy Vegan offers a safe haven for those who dare to challenge the status quo. This unwavering commitment to their mission has earned The Fussy Vegan the title of the "Best Vegan Restaurant in Joburg" in 2021, a testament to their impact and the support of their vibrant community.
Source: Facebook Page
Charlotte Rhys
CHARLOTTE RHYS is a luxurious escape from the everyday, offering a collection of fragrance and lifestyle products crafted with care. Here, sustainability meets sophistication in a range of bath, body, home, and lifestyle products. As a leading luxury brand, CHARLOTTE RHYS has embraced a stringent green policy, putting the protection of natural resources and sustainable development at the forefront, while reducing the negative impact of the cosmetics and beauty industry on the planet.
The brand is committed to Beauty without Cruelty regulations, creating products that are both kind to the consumer and the environment. Every aspect of CHARLOTTE RHYS products, from the ingredients to the packaging, are thoughtfully selected with criteria such as green safety, efficacy, sustainability, Fairtrade, and veganism in mind, sourcing sustainable and environmentally friendly resources from South Africa. Experience the world of CHARLOTTE RHYS, where indulgence and responsibility seamlessly unite.
Source: Facebook Page
Oh-Lief Skin Care
Oh-lief, founded in 2010 by sisters Christine Buchanan and Louiza Rademan, is a natural and organic skincare brand born out of their passion for nature and a desire to use safe and eco-friendly products. Its name is inspired by olive oil, the primary ingredient in all of its products, and the Afrikaans word "lief," meaning love for organic, nature and your skin. The brand offers a complete range of certified natural and organic baby, body, and sun care products, made from 100% natural and organic raw ingredients sourced locally.
They use a base of organic olive oil and beeswax, combined with other organic ingredients, to create products suitable for all skin types. Oh-lief's products are free from harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, petroleum, parabens, artificial colours, and synthetic bases. The brand is committed to producing clean cosmetics and is cruelty-free, with vegetarian and vegan options available. Oh-lief is handmade with love, offering a natural and organic solution for your skin.
Source: Facebook Page
Skin Creamery
Founded by Hannah Rubin in 2014, Skin Creamery was created as a solution to an increasingly over-saturated world of information and choice, offering a simplified approach to skincare that prioritises only the essentials that naturally nourish and nurture the skin. Skin Creamery's Slow Beauty ethos and vision advocate for being kind to both the earth and one's skin simultaneously. It inspires individuals to make self-care a daily ritual, enabling them to appreciate themselves and their natural beauty.
Slow Beauty is a holistic, natural way of taking care of your skin, placing personal and environmental well-being at the forefront. It is a way to redefine beauty standards, reconnect with oneself, and discover skincare rituals that enhance one's unique beauty while embracing your natural self.
Source: Facebook Page
Faithful to Nature
Faithful to Nature is a conscious shopping destination, established in 2006 to provide consumers with access to honest, affordable, and ethical products. With a world-first ingredient policy, they strive to offer clean, toxin-free options. Their mission is to create a future where conscious shopping is the norm, protecting both individuals and the planet. Through ongoing refinement of its ingredient policy, social impact initiatives, and efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, Faithful to Nature is dedicated to positively shaping the landscape of conscious retail.
Faithful to Nature blazed a trail as the first African retailer to attain BCorp certification in 2021. B Corps are cutting-edge companies that utilise the power of business to tackle social and environmental issues. This certification demonstrates Faithful to Nature's adherence to stringent standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency, and showcases the effects of their practices on employees, community, customers, and the environment. Faithful to Nature joins a prestigious group of over 2,200 B Corps globally. The company takes pride in being part of this movement, shaping a new definition of business success that prioritises making a positive impact.
Source: Lexi’s Eatery
Lexi’s Eatery
Lexi's Healthy Eatery is a restaurant that is mostly vegan and serves whole-foods, with the goal of making sustainable and conscious living more accessible and convenient for the community. The eatery strives to encourage a healthier, more ethical and eco-friendly lifestyle through the consumption of mostly plants, reducing processed food and excluding animal products.
The team at Lexi's believe that by encouraging these small changes, they can help to shape the landscape of healthy eating and sustainability in South Africa - one beetroot falafel wrap at a time. No matter if someone follows a vegan, vegetarian, banting, paleo, or simply wants to make healthier and more ethical choices, Lexi's Eatery stresses the importance of eating in a way that makes you feel good, and in a way that you can be proud of what you are putting in your body.
Source: Facebook Page
Cheaky Co
Cheaky Co. is a specialist in chickpeas, crafting plant-based snacks that showcase the versatile nature of this legume. Launched in 2019, the company started in a small kitchen in Cape Town, exploring new ways to incorporate chickpeas in confectioneries.
With a focus on healthier snacks made from nutritious ingredients, Cheaky Co. offers three distinct ranges: Orbs, a sweet snack reminiscent of chocolate-coated balls with a high-fibre, protein-rich chickpea centre coated in smooth dark or oat milk chocolate; Chyps, a crunchy, savoury snack made from dry-roasted chickpeas and a blend of spices, best enjoyed with a cold drink; and Chunx, crunchy chickpea clusters coated in smooth chocolate, gluten-free, high in fibre, and vegan.
All Cheaky Co. products are free from gluten and preservatives, vegan-friendly, and come in a variety of flavours. The company is committed to giving back to the community and the environment, using recyclable packaging and avoiding animal-derived products.
Veg Friendly CT
Thanks to Talya Goldberg, finding vegan and vegetarian options in Cape Town has become so much easier. Talya has become the go-to source for all things related to a vegan, vegetarian and plant-based lifestyle in Cape Town. She has taken it upon herself to share her love for plant-based food by curating a comprehensive guide on Veg Friendly Cape Town.
Here, one can embark on a culinary journey, exploring the best veg-friendly restaurants and cafes in the city. Talya's recommendations are based on her own personal experiences, ensuring that each place she features offers a truly delicious and satisfying vegan experience. From savoury meals to sweet treats, she covers it all and shares her insights on what to order and where to go.
Source: Facebook Page
We Cafe
At We Cafe, cooking is a passion fueled by a love for vegan, healthy food made with positive energy. The cafe has been curated with life, nature, its guests and care for the planet in mind. They prioritise rational resource consumption, friendship, and purity in all that they do. The team at We Cafe believes in showcasing the natural flavour of each ingredient, using only the best products that nature has to offer.
Vegan cooking is not just a job, it's a lifestyle, and the cafe is particularly passionate about plant-based desserts and sweets. We Cafe does not use any animal products, dairy, or sugar, ensuring only natural ingredients are used in all drinks and desserts. With gluten-free options available in every section, We Cafe cares about its guests and their health. Every recipe is developed with the goal of promoting a healthy lifestyle and a good mood.
Source: Google
The Vegan Life
The Vegan Life is the ultimate online destination for all things vegan. From the latest plant-based products to sustainable, eco-friendly goods, The Vegan Life has it all. The marketplace showcases an extensive collection of brands including On The Green Side, Herbivore, Fauxmage, Urban Vegan, Violife, Just Egg, Mylk, Vegan Butcherie, Miyokos, Beyond Meat, Upton's, Violife, Oatly, and many more.
Whether you want to get your favourite vegan products delivered to your door with just a few clicks, or shop for them on UberEats, the options are endless. The Vegan Life offers an easy-to-use iOS and Android app, making it even more convenient for users to shop for their favourite vegan products from the comfort of their own homes.
Source: Facebook Page
Eat More Greens
Eat More Greens is a revolutionary social dining experience that showcases the finest in gourmet plant-based cuisine. Regardless of whether you follow a vegan, vegetarian, or plant-based lifestyle, or are simply exploring healthier dietary options, they warmly invited to join them at the table.
With its focus on cruelty-free dining experiences, Eat More Greens hosts vegan pop-up dinners led by expert chefs, as well as community-organised potluck dinners that encourage guests to bring and share their favourite plant-based dishes. The goal is to create meaningful and magical experiences that bring together a compassionate community of like-minded individuals.
Source: Ubuntu Wellness
Ubuntu Wellness
Ubuntu Wellness NPO is a catalyst for positive change in Africa, utilising plant-based solutions to promote skills, create jobs, and tackle food security issues. Since its inception in 2013, this award-winning charity and training school has become a leading force in sustainable solutions for Africa through its unique social impact model that brings together the for-profit and non-profit sectors.
As a level 1 BBBEE NPO, "Ubuntu Trust" and its subsidiary level 2, "Ubuntu Academy", this organisation is dedicated to amplifying the plant-based community and making a lasting impact on the lives of those they serve. Ubuntu Wellness aims to establish Africa's first financially sustainable educational academy that prioritizes wellness. Additionally, the NPO seeks to empower communities to embrace healthy lifestyles and heal the environment. Focusing on vulnerable communities in South Africa, the mission addresses food security and works towards achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal of Zero Hunger.
Source: Facebook Page
Vegan Things
Vegan Things is a foodie guide that offers an extensive directory of all things plant-based for those seeking vegan options in RSA. From restaurants to recipes and product reviews, Vegan Things is the ultimate resource for discovering the best of the vegan world.
With a focus on highlighting top brands, products, and restaurants, the guide provides insightful recommendations and reviews, making it easier to find your next plant-based meal. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just curious about the lifestyle, Vegan Things has something for just about everyone.
Source: Facebook Page
Scheckter’s Raw
Scheckter's Raw is a haven of wholesome nourishment, where the spirit of giving and sharing is at the forefront of every dish. With a commitment to honesty, natural ingredients, and innovation, they bring to life a menu that is unrivalled in its beauty and purity. The food is crafted with love and is always plant-based, cruelty-free, and nutrient-rich. Ingredients are sourced from the finest local and international suppliers, ensuring only the best reaches your plate.
As you savour each bite, you'll be inspired by the passion, gratitude, and generosity infused in every dish. Scheckter's Raw is dedicated to sharing their love for healthy, wholesome food, one delicious meal at a time. Each visit is an experience to be cherished, a moment of health and happiness that nourishes the mind, body, and soul. It is an invitation to embrace the beauty of nature and live life to the fullest.
Source: Org de Rac Winery
Org de Rac Winery
Org de Rac is a premier wine farm nestled in the heart of the Western Cape’s Swartland region that offers a unique blend of locally and globally grown organic wines. The winery was purchased in 2000 by Nico Bacon, an entrepreneurial South African fishing industry veteran, who had a vision of creating a sustainable wine farm that would become a leader in the industry.
The first vines were planted in 2002, and within a short time, Org de Rac had established itself as one of South Africa's premier organic wine farms, renowned for its commitment to sustainable agriculture. With the growing demand for vegan wines, the farm has embraced this new approach in their production process.
Unlike traditional wines that often use egg whites and fish products as fining agents, Org de Rac uses a clay-based bentonite to reduce astringency and bitterness, as well as clarify and adjust the wine's colour without relying on animal products. This unique approach has helped the winery to stand out in the industry, offering a truly organic and ethical product to consumers.
Source: Facebook Page
Vegan Sisters Apparel - South Africa
Vegan Sisters Apparel (VSA) was founded on vegan sisters Jo Reynolds and Louise Reynolds’ compassion for all living things and the environment. Striving to be a positive change in a world plagued by cruelty, exploitation, and destruction, VSA creates wearable artwork through which they hope to spread the vegan message and generate interest in their cause. They are passionate about the potential difference that their art can make.
To ensure their garments are ethically produced and of high quality, they collaborate with talented vegan artists, use non-animal inks, and small batch production. Furthermore, sustainability is a priority for the brand, and they incorporate recycled fabrics wherever possible and are working to introduce organic cotton into their range. VSA also focuses on local production to reduce their carbon footprint and create garments that can be treasured for years to come.
Source: Google
Call it Spring
Call It Spring proudly offers a range of shoes, bags, and accessories that are 100% free from animal derivatives, including animal skins, feathers, fur, hair, wool, shells, silk, adhesives, and components. Their commitment to becoming fully vegan is a step towards creating a better future and providing customers with accessible, animal-friendly options without sacrificing style.
Call It Spring is committed to sustainability, social responsibility, and environmental protection. They are Certified Climate Neutral, PETA-Approved Vegan, and a member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC) as well as use sustainable packaging, renewable energy, and the Higg Index to measure their environmental impact in an effort to reduce their carbon footprint.
Source: Facebook Page
Nu-Eco
Nu-Eco's offerings are a testament to their commitment to the environment, with a range of 100% natural and eco-friendly cleaning products that are gentle on the planet. Each product is made using 100% vegan ingredients and is crafted with care, utilizing natural ingredients that are both safe and effective. And, with its watercourse-friendly formula, Nu-Eco's products are not only gentle on the Earth, but also won't pollute waterways, making it a safe choice for cleaning drains.
The products are guaranteed to be 100% natural, free of parabens, SLS, and sulphates, with some utilizing "good" bacteria to break down toxins and waste into harmless molecules. This not only makes the products effective, but it also helps promote a healthy, clean environment.
In line with its commitment to preserving the environment, Nu-Eco products are animal and wildlife-friendly, with no animal testing involved in their creation. Beauty Without Cruelty has approved the line for its cruelty-free status, making it a choice for those who prioritise their health and the health of the planet. The Nu-Eco line is the perfect choice for those looking for 100% vegan, natural, and environmentally responsible cleaning products.
Source: Facebook Page
Baocare Skincare
BaoCare Skincare offers a collection of 100% natural baobab oil serums, designed to address a range of skin conditions. With six unique products, each formula is carefully crafted with organic and wild-harvested baobab oil, known for its skin-healing properties, and blended with other natural ingredients to create a synergistic effect for different skin types. The products are free of synthetic chemicals, parabens, and mineral oils, and feature delicate fragrances made with pure essential oils, with the option for fragrance-free baobab oil for those with sensitive skin. BaoCare offers a natural and multi-tasking skincare solution for all.
BaoCare is driven by a passion for care and sustainability. Their certified organic baobab oil is sourced from Limpopo, the heart of baobab country, through EcoProducts, South Africa's leading baobab producer. Only 10% of fallen fruit is harvested, ensuring sustainable practices that do not harm the trees. The local Venda women from rural communities, who are mostly the sole breadwinners of their families, are employed by EcoProducts.
The Baobab Foundation, also run by EcoProducts, provides funding for preschool creches, recognizing the importance of early childhood development in breaking the poverty cycle. To further protect the baobab trees, EcoProducts has launched the Baobab Guardians Program, which aims to counter the damage caused by livestock to young baobab seedlings and promote new growth.
Source: Facebook Page
Happy Kingdom Vegan Foods
Happy Kingdom Vegan Foods is a food delivery service that offers a sumptuous spread of vegan comfort foods, prepared with the utmost freshness and care. The menu boasts high protein, low carb, and keto options that cater to the health-conscious food lovers of Durban. Every dish is 100% plant-based, gluten-free, and created with love and respect for mind, body, and soul, as well as the planet.
Caryn Swart, the founder, owner, and head chef of Happy Kingdom Vegan Foods, is a fanatic and passionate advocate of healthy, conscious, and kind eating. With her expertise in the culinary arts and a deep-seated love for all things green, she handcrafts every meal with the intention of nourishing both the body and the soul.
Source: Google
Stellar Winery
Stellar Winery, nestled in Kys Halte, Western Cape, is renowned for its exceptional wines, all of which are organic, vegan-friendly, and fair trade certified. As South Africa's largest producer of fine organic fair trade wines and the largest global producer of no-added-sulphur wines, Stellar embodies innovation in winemaking and social development. With a commitment to integrity, the winery continues to explore new ways of working and living, constantly striving to build something greater than itself.
Stellar Winery sources organic grapes from independent, Fair Trade-certified farms that are part of the Stellar Multi-Estate and is dedicated to producing sustainable, environmentally responsible wine. The winery, along with its certified organic cellar, operates in harmony with nature and values its farmworkers, continuously striving to improve their living and working conditions. To achieve this, Stellar has established various initiatives, including the Stellar Empowerment Trust, Stellar Agri and the registered non-profit and public benefit organisation, The Stellar Foundation. The foundation is committed to enhancing the lives of all workers on the estate and driving their developmental initiatives.
Source: Google
Wild Dreams
Wild Dreams Hospitality is a renowned player in the industry, with its team boasting over a hundred years of combined experience. They offer professional and expert services in consulting and recruitment, serving clients across Southern Africa, including countries like Botswana, Swaziland, Zambia, Tanzania, and Malawi. Their extensive hospitality background in various establishments and environments, both globally and locally, enables them to swiftly develop customised plans for clients seeking to enhance their service through consulting or recruitment of top-notch staff.
As the only company in Africa that specialises in vegan jobs, Wild Dreams Hospitality is proud to have Hayley, Africa's only certified vegan hospitality consultant, and the creator of the world's first online vegan hospitality training, on its team. Their mission is to make their clients' wildest dreams a reality, whether it's a job seeker searching for their dream job or a client looking to advance in the ever-evolving industry.
Source: Facebook Page
The Nest Space
The Nest Space is an inclusive wellness oasis that embraces holistic health services for everyone. This tranquil space is founded on values of inclusivity, simplicity, fairness, self-expression, connection, community, harmony, self-celebration, and self-expression. The Nest features a yoga studio, an alternative therapy room, a vegan café, and a zero-waste grocer, fostering a nurturing environment for healing, growth, transformation, self-discovery, inspiration, and collaboration.
The team at The Nest Space is made up of a diverse group of instructors, including founder and co-owners Anesu Mbizvo and Banesa Tseki, both of whom have extensive knowledge and experience in the field. They believe in the power of holistic well-being and strive to create a space that can help individuals escape and heal from the inside out.
Regardless of age or experience level, The Nest Space offers classes for everyone. They invite you to come and experience the power of holistic well-being, and embark on a unique self-transformation journey guided by The Nest Space team. All are welcome just as they are, perfect and complete in their own unique way.
Source: Google
My Bliss Co
Born from the passion and love of Samantha Reynolds, My Bliss Co has evolved into a thriving creative agency and plant-based consulting firm. Focused on empowering women and partnering with brands that celebrate them, My Bliss Co's mission is to support women, particularly those in their 40s, as they navigate life's challenges and discover joy, health, beauty, and balance.
With Samantha at the helm, My Bliss Co is a safe haven for those seeking respite. As a certified plant-based nutritionist, yoga teacher, massage therapist, stress consultant, and luxury spa director, Samantha brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to the table. Her background as a designer, writer, photographer, and Art Director, combined with her highly sensitive and intuitive nature, make her the perfect guide on your journey to finding bliss. My Bliss Co is the embodiment of Samantha's own happy place – a warm and welcoming company that exists to help you find yours.
Rhino-Foodz
Rhino-Foodz embodies a passion for 100% natural and premium plant-based and vegan products. All products are hand-crafted using locally sourced ingredients and infused with love. Free from synthetic preservatives, flavours, texturizers, and other unhealthy fillers, these products offer not only a delicious but mindful experience. Additionally, a portion of every sale goes towards supporting Rhino-Foundations to protect rhinos. These products are certified organic, healthy, and convenient, offering a plant-based and vegan option for a cleaner, healthier diet.
Dr. Stef, a plant-based food lover and nutrition scientist from Germany, realized the scarcity of healthy plant-based food options in South Africa. This, combined with the lack of organic certified and pesticide-free food, led to her creating her own vegetable spreads for personal consumption. After receiving positive feedback from friends, she decided to share her creations with the world. As a nutrition expert, she feels a responsibility to help people eat healthier and embrace a more natural and plant-based diet. Her first product, the Slow Food veggie spreads, are carefully crafted by hand, preserving the natural flavours and nutrients for maximum benefits.
Greyton Farm Animal Sanctuary
The Greyton Farm Animal Sanctuary is a haven for rescued, neglected, sick, disabled, and retired farm animals. Officially founded in 2014 by British ex-pat Nicky Vernon and her friend Rohan Millson, the sanctuary is located on 40 hectares of land just outside Greyton in the Western Cape, South Africa. Built using sustainable materials like straw bale and clay, the farm runs off the grid using solar power.
Nicky and Rohan's journey as animal rescuers began when they discovered struggling lambs in the fields surrounding their home. Over time, they developed a relationship with local farmers and took in more and more abandoned animals. The sanctuary officially began when Bella the pig arrived, followed by more "mini" pigs from owners who could no longer care for them. The defining moment came when Nicky found a newly-born calf lying in the field, who she named Heaven and cared for until his passing. This experience inspired her to dedicate her life to preventing animal suffering, and the sanctuary was officially born.
Today, the sanctuary is home to nearly 200 rescued animals, including pigs, sheep, goats, geese, roosters, a duck, and senior dogs and cats. The sanctuary team is committed to providing a peaceful, comfortable home for all the residents, with ample space to roam during the day and large paddocks to return to at night. The sanctuary also has a strict no-breeding policy, and provides resources for the Humane Education Programme, aimed at educating children in the Greyton and neighbouring communities about animal welfare.
Shop Zero
Shop Zero™ is a small business with a big heart, offering green options for eco-conscious customers. They specialise in delivering healthy foods, toiletries, lifestyle, and cleaning products in recyclable and reusable packaging, curated to promote the health and well-being of both people and the planet.
With a wide range of single-use plastic alternatives and a commitment to using only ethical suppliers, Shop Zero™ is on a mission to eliminate single-use plastic and create awareness around pollution. They are vegan-owned and operated, with a low carbon footprint and an emphasis on offsetting their impact through initiatives such as supporting reforestation projects and donating to ocean conservation. Together, Shop Zero™ and their customers can eliminate single-use plastic and help save the environment.
Outcast Foods
Outcast Foods is a company that has emerged from a conscious and experimental lifestyle with real, clean food. Their mission is to provide delicious plant-based food that is not only easy to prepare but also contributes to a happier and healthier world. The company believes that every plant-based meal counts, and they are dedicated to inspiring people to create nutrient-rich and healthy food with ease in their own homes.
Passionate about making their lifestyle accessible to others, Outcast Foods was founded with the goal of sharing their love for plant-based eating. Their products are now stocked in a variety of popular stores, including Pick n Pay, Spar, The Refillery, and the Wellness Warehouse. With a commitment to providing high-quality and easy-to-prepare plant-based food, Outcast Foods is the perfect choice for those who want to make healthier choices without sacrificing taste.
The Vegan Chef
The Vegan Chef is a proudly South African, vertically integrated plant-based food business that creates delectable gourmet and artisanal vegan food. With a commitment to customer health and environmental sustainability, they push culinary boundaries to continuously deliver exceptional plant-based food experiences. From their mouth-watering menu at their TVC food outlets to their frozen convenience range available in stores and online, The Vegan Chef offers delicious and accessible options for all.
They believe in promoting plant-based consumption to remove animal cruelty from the food industry, improve customer well-being, and elevate environmental and ethical standards. Their commitment to social responsibility extends to sourcing raw materials from local suppliers to foster sustainable business models and creating employment opportunities for people with disadvantaged backgrounds. Through in-house training and chef schools, they upskill their staff to become marketable across the hospitality industry, ultimately contributing to a better society for all beings in South Africa.
Nature Vyvotion
Sean, a devoted snack enthusiast and lover, recognized a dire need for delectable and nutritious snacks in South Africa. With a burning passion to discover snacks that could provide both taste and health benefits, he embarked on a mission to uncover low-calorie yet scrumptious options. Despite years of trying every snack imaginable, he still couldn't find the perfect fit, leading him to become the trailblazer he knew he had to be. Hence, Nature Vyvotion was born - a company that aims to benefit both humankind and the planet, while also remaining vegan-friendly.
Nature Vyvotion is dedicated to providing South African consumers with the best low-calorie and tasty confectionery products in the world. The company strives to continuously innovate and prioritise environmental sustainability, ensuring that quality is never sacrificed. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Sean and his team at Nature Vyvotion will stop at nothing until they bring you the very best.
HSI-Africa
As a prominent champion for animal rights throughout the African continent, Humane Society International/Africa has established itself as a leading force in the field of animal protection. Through its dynamic campaigns, this organisation has been instrumental in improving the welfare of farmed animals, safeguarding wildlife, reducing the use of animals in testing, and enhancing the safety of companion animals.
Proudly affiliated with Humane Society International, one of the most prominent animal protection groups on the global stage, HSI/Africa has access to an unparalleled network of resources and expertise. With an unwavering commitment to promoting compassion and respect for all living beings, this organisation continues to blaze a trail for animal welfare across Africa and beyond.
Okja
Okja believes that the future is not just about being sustainable, ethical, or nutritious - it's also about being delicious. As a company, their mission is to help guide good people towards an easy, smooth, and delicious journey towards a more plant-based diet, which will not only benefit themselves but also others and the planet we call home. While plant-based milk is nothing new, Okja takes a different approach to its creation. They believe in using only the best ingredients, without any additives or gums that you can't pronounce. Their oat milk is rich, creamy, and perfect for adding to cereal, blending with superfoods in smoothies, or even dunking cookies into.
Okja's philosophy is simple - what you put in is what you get out. This is reflected in their approach to making their drinks - they use only the best ingredients and techniques to ensure that every sip is packed with flavour and nutrition. In fact, they are so proud of their product that they list all the ingredients on the front of the pack, for everyone to see. With Okja, you can enjoy a delicious plant-based milk that not only tastes great but is also kind to your body and the planet.
The choice of which plant-based organisations in South Africa to support and the way in which you choose to do so lies entirely in your hands. But, there is one thing that cannot be ignored or left up to individual interpretation, and that is our shared responsibility to recognise and tackle the pressing issue of the environmental crisis.
A plant-based lifestyle offers us a powerful tool in our fight against climate change. By supporting plant-based organisations, we have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in reducing our carbon footprint, conserving vital resources, and protecting the diversity of life on our planet.
Is anyone missing from our list? Pop us an email to let us know, so that we can continue celebrating South Africa’s top plant-based organisations.
40 Plant-Based South African Storymakers
Join us as we celebrate 35 South Africans have used their creativity to help grow the plant-based eating movement in South Africa. These 35 people have changed policy, started businesses, grown communities, and helped make plant-based eating more accessible and inspiring.
Join us as we celebrate 40 South Africans who have used their creativity to help grow the plant-based eating movement in South Africa. These 40 people have changed policy, started businesses, grown communities, and helped make plant-based eating more accessible and inspiring.
What we eat doesn’t only affect our health, but also the health of our planet. Research shows that a plant-based diet is a good way to help protect the environment, lower your carbon footprint, slow down climate change, support animal welfare, fight environmental degradation, improve public health, and help the economy change.
Between 1998 and 2018, the amount of meat eaten around the world went up by 58%. Animal farming is responsible for 57% of the greenhouse gases that come from the food system, even though it only makes up 18% of the calories we eat. Climate change, deforestation, lack of water, soil degradation, antibiotic resistance, and the loss of biodiversity are all made worse by the production of beef.
When people eat more plants, the demand for meat, dairy, and eggs goes down. This reduces the suffering of animals and the harsh conditions they have to live in on factory farms. Also, plant-based diets have been linked to lower blood pressure, better heart health, a lower risk of diabetes and cancer, and better well-being and mental health, while eating meat has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, pneumonia, and other serious illnesses.
““Veganism is just a result of your own compassion towards all beings, and compassion is simply a realisation of your connection to nature. When you connect with your nature, with all the beings or all of existence, you will spontaneously become compassionate with everyone.” ”
As more people pay attention to what they eat and want to eat more plant-based foods, more grocery stores, hotels, and restaurants will have these options. As plant-based alternatives become as much a part of South African culture as braaivleis and bobotie, it makes sense that more people will be against putting rules on plant-based alternatives.
Here is a list of the 35 South Africans to follow who only eat plant-based foods. In honour of Veganuary 2023, Treeshake put together this list. These are the people whose voices have changed policy and who inspire others to cook healthy, nutritious, and tasty plant-based food. These people decide every day what food is best for them, their families, and the planet. They also help South Africa's plant-based economy grow. Follow them, support them, and add your own voice to theirs. Together, we can support an economy that makes life easier for vegans and vegetarians by making plant-based alternatives easy to find.
THIRTY FIVE STORYMAKERS ADVANCING PLANT-BASED ECONOMY IN SA
The Caulivores (Nate Duarte and Tayla Davis) (Instagram)
“The power of fueling your body on plants will blow your mind.”
Tayla, Nate, and River Grace are The Caulivores, a whole-food, plant-based family. Nate works in logistics, and Tayla is a model and mother. Nate was able to get rid of his chronic sinusitis after he switched to a plant-based diet and saw firsthand how eating more plants helped him. Based on his observations, the more he leaned toward plants as his primary source of nutrition, the healthier his body became.
"It's like upgrading your body's fuel to a cleaner-burning fuel with a slew of vitality-boosting effects on your health and well-being."
For Nate and Tayla, once you switch to a plant-based diet, your taste buds will start to change, and foods you used to think were just okay will start to taste great. What a treat! Their only regret is not going plant-based sooner.
"It's an exciting journey of discovering a whole new way of eating food that has so many positive downstream effects. It is good for your health, good for the planet's health, and a kinder way to coexist with other sentient beings on this planet. You will never look back once you feel the incredible shift in your own body!"
Jason McNamara (Instagram)
“We don’t have a Planet B to call home! This one is all we have, and we have the power to change the way we treat mother earth through the foods we choose to eat.”
Jason (Jay Mac) is the creator of The Kind Kitchen, a vegan comfort food café in Woodstock, Cape Town. “Being vegan does not have to mean a lifetime of lentils and lettuce leaves.”
Jay’s innovative and vibrant recipes reimagine all your favourite dishes, and we can confirm that he has mastered the art of turning mushrooms into chicken! His truly delicious The Kind Kitchen vegan cookbook can be purchased here.
Dr Anesu Mbizvo (Instagram)
“If you are not vegan, please consider going vegan. It’s a matter of nonviolence. Being vegan is your statement that you reject violence to other sentient beings, to yourself, and to the environment, on which all sentient beings depend.” - Gary L. Francione
Johannesburg-based Dr. Anesu Mbizvo is a medical doctor, yoga teacher, business owner, and former "Survivor South Africa" contestant. Her interests include holistic health, sustainability, and mental health and well-being.
She advises making a gradual transition to a plant-based lifestyle. Instead of trying to give up all meat and dairy at once, she suggests starting with having one plant-based day a week and then building up to one plant-based meal a day.
For Anesu, the goal is to strive to be a better version of yourself and to give yourself grace in the process. Changing habits takes time, and it's normal to make mistakes and slip up now and then. Rather than punishing yourself, forgive yourself with compassion and remind yourself that you are acting in the best interests of yourself and our planet.
Alexandra Dodd (Instagram)
“Veganism is a daily commitment to bringing about a kinder, less violent world“.
Alexandra is a Cape Town-based writer and editor. Her commitment to veganism, animal welfare, and the environment is truly inspiring.
Going vegan for Alexandra has been the one of the most energising, and life-changing decisions she has ever made and continues to make on a daily basis. She suggests that before you begin changing your current lifestyle and choices, you be clear about why you're making the choice, and everything else will flow naturally from there. “Being vegan has changed my orientation in relation to history. I feel much more strongly aligned to the future than I used to, because my connection to life and other living beings of all kinds has deepened vastly”.
For Alexandra, there are so many delicious plant-based options and substitutes for everything these days. “The more difficult part is allowing your numbed conscience to awaken. It hurts to realise how chaotic, violent, and destructive the global animal industrial system is. Take solace in the fact that you're doing something about it rather than just pretending it's not happening’.
Veganism, she believes, is much more political and spiritual than just a way of life or a diet. She explains, “Veganism is entangled with other political struggles. Like all forms of oppression, violent speciesism runs deeper than we know. Now is the time to bring forth a more symbiotic, respectful, and regenerative world! Life on Earth depends on it. Start anywhere, anytime, and take it from there. Every choice counts in large amounts.”
Tammy Fry (Instagram)
“Our food selections not only impact our own health but also the health of Mother Earth and all who call her home.”
Tammy Fry is the daughter of Wally Fry, the founder of The Fry Family Food Company, a South African company known internationally for its plant-based food products. Tammy Fry is an avid crossfitter, a 5th Dan in Karateka, a multiple-time South African national champion, a self-defense coach, a surfer, a businesswoman, a public speaker, a plant-based nutritionist, and the mother of two young boys.
She is a plant-based expert and change advocate who believes that, as a collective, we all have the power to make and leave the world a better place. She was named one of the top eight women changing the world through food by Female First in the UK. She has an undeniable drive to inspire and influence change.
In 2021, Tammy published her vegan-based cookbook offering 75 wholefood, plant-based recipes. “Made with Love and Plants," can be purchased here.
Garth Tavares (Instagram | Twitter)
“All you need is an open mind, a willingness to expand your experience of tastes and textures, the bravery to cook things you can’t pronounce, and most importantly, the patience to understand that all you need to succeed is to take things one day at a time.”
Garth is best known as "Cape Town Vegan." He advises newcomers to the lifestyle to take as long as they need to commit to becoming fully vegan. You know people who say, "I could become vegan if it wasn't for cheese! Well, become "as vegan as possible" until you can give up cheese. Of course, again, one would argue that you can't call yourself vegan if you are not fully vegan. "Do whatever YOU need to do to permanently eliminate animal products from your life."
A few tips and tricks he advises people to try include becoming inspired - watch YouTube videos on easy vegan recipes, becoming informed - read up on other people's tips and tricks for transitioning, substituting GRADUALLY - start with milk replacements finding the one you like, and then gradually omitting cheese, butter, yoghurt, and mayo.
Check out his website www.capetownvegan.com where you will find a complete list of eateries that have vegan options: there are hundreds! There are loads of restaurants with vegan AND omnivore options if you have family members who refuse to eat at 100% vegan restaurants.
Kerishnie Naiker (Instagram | Twitter | Facebook)
“Do not underestimate the positive impact one person can make to benefit Mother Earth, Our Planet and all forms of life.”
Health Activist, international speaker & TV Anchor, Kerishnie has been a vegetarian since birth, but has spent decades as the only vegan in her extended family. Her plant-based diet has given her many mental, emotional, and physical benefits including a full-term, symptom-free pregnancy and a healthy child.
Kerishnie believes it is important not to impose her preferences on others. Seek clarity first, she says, and then make your own informed choices, without being swayed by others.
Michele Mistry (Instagram | Facebook)
“When your body is in balance, your tastes change naturally, and things you thought you couldn't live without become irrelevant.”
Michele is a Cape Town-based certified Ayurvedic nutrition consultant and creative strategist. Her advice for a sustainable and gradual change to better health is to substitute plant-based ingredients for your current top five favourite recipes.
She advocates joining the vegan community and making friends with other plant-based people who can provide the support, wealth of knowledge, and experience you might need when it gets tough or lonely.
Savannah Hodgkinson (Instagram)
“It takes nothing away from a human to be kind to an animal.”
Savannah is currently pursuing a master's degree in Geography with a focus on food geography. and is passionate about sharing vegan recipes and products on social media. Savannah believes that gradually transitioning to a plant-based diet is more sustainable. Her tips for becoming a vegan begin with diet. Continue to eat what you want, but gently prepare your favourite dishes with plant-based ingredients. Allow yourself and your body time to adjust to this new way of life. Change happens gradually. “It also takes a while for your body to get used to all that added fibre. When I first went vegan six years ago I could not stand tofu! Nearly five years later I am obsessed with tofu and tempeh. Try new things often and revert back to the ones you did not like at first because your taste buds might just change their mind”.
She thinks that the best ways to get people to live plant-based lives is through kindness and patience. With compassion and empathy, assist people in transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle. A single meal or wise purchase can make a significant difference.
Sue Gajathar (Instagram)
“Eat the rainbow!”
Sue is the founder of The Vegan Chef restaurant group and a vegan chef. She lives in Johannesburg and owns several vegan restaurants in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, as well as an online store where you can buy her delectable vegan meals.
Sue's Instagram feed is a visual feast. She illustrates, via the use of spices and the right cooking techniques, how a plant-based diet can be healthy, environmentally friendly and delicious. She supports Veganuary and follows the international Veganuary Instagram account @weareveganuary.
Brett Thompson (LinkedIn)
“The cost of compassion is too high. We shop on price, taste, convenience, and culture. Our job is to meet consumers where they are at and provide a more compassionate, sustainable, ethically conscious choice.”
Brett is the co-founder of the Credence Institute and the founder of Mzanzi Meat Co, focused on reimagining the way we make meat through lab grown cultivation. When explaining why he created Mzanzi Meat Co, Brett offers this perspective, "You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, create a new model that renders the old model obsolete."
He is also the South African spokesperson for Meat-Free Mondays and played a role in bringing Veganuary to South Africa in 2020.
When it comes to converting to a plant-based lifestyle, Brett takes a "one bite at a time" approach.
Read more about the amazing work Mzansi Meat Co is doing.
Megan Bell (Instagram)
“As a vegan and a conservationist at heart, I believe that we should live in harmony with nature and others. To me, this means that I refuse to partake in the suffering of others, whether human or animal. Showing love has never made me feel bad.”
Megan is a help desk support engineer living in Cape Town, and her Instagram feed reflects her passion for food and living a more sustainable lifestyle.
Megan says that people who want to switch to a plant-based diet should start small and take it easy on themselves. Begin by eliminating animal products, but keep in mind that you can still make your favourite dishes plant-based. She reminds us that we live in a time when plant-based options are much more readily available than they were a few years ago.
The people around you will be the most difficult part of going plant-based. She warns vegans not to let other people force their beliefs on them or make them second-guess their choice to become vegan. Research is your friend.
Michaela Alexandre (Instagram)
“This is the start of a new life that is still full of flavour, health and kindness!”
Michaela is an entrepreneur, food photographer and recipe developer. She lives in Cape Town and creates fun vegan recipes that inspire the vegan community and those looking for lifestyle changes in food.
If you want to live a vegan lifestyle, Michaela advises that you start with one meal at a time and do a lot of thorough research. Knowledge can be used as motivation when choosing what to put on your plate. She emphasises the importance of having fun creating plant-based versions of your favourite dishes.
“I want people to know that there is no ‘perfect vegan’ out there. It’s a process. Just start and improve where you can.”
Cayley Mogg (Instagram)
"We do not need 100 people to do this perfectly; we need 1,000 people to do it imperfectly. Together, we can make the biggest difference."
Cayley is a social media manager from Edenvale, Johannesburg, and she has been vegan for six years.
She advises that there is no need to drastically change your life overnight or to purge your cupboards and get rid of everything that does not support a plant-based lifestyle in one day when beginning a plant-based lifestyle. Instead, be patient and keep in mind that a lifestyle change takes time. Everyone has their own timeline, whether it's one meat-free meal a day or one new cruelty-free cleaning product. Every small change has a big impact!
Mira Weiner (Instagram | Website)
"I truly believe we can change the world through our kitchens, our little kitchens, and our big kitchens."
Mira Weiner is a plant-based advocate, marketing consultant, entrepreneur, and creative cook. Mira is passionate about conscious living, sustainability, and holistic healing.
She hopes to motivate people to consume more plants, which are better for the environment, animals, and their bodies. She has been a vegetarian since birth and is grateful to have grown up in a vegetarian-friendly household.
Her food philosophy is simple: food should be delicious, nutritious, and nourishing, while also fueling and healing your body, mind, and spirit.
Dominique Westphal (Instagram | TikTok)
"There’s no rush. Do what you can 🌱"
Dominique is a social media manager and lives in Cape Town. She enjoys being a vegan, engaging in athletics, and calling South Africa home.
She finds it simple, and she advises new vegans not to be too strict with themselves. Vegetables and fruits should make up the bulk of your diet. She also wants you to know that you should take your time and do what you can. Get through it one day at a time.
Gabrielle Meyer (Instagram | TikTok)
“You don’t have to be vegan every day. BUT every single day you are, you save on average one animal, 40 pound of grain, 1100 gallons of water and 30 square feet of forest. Together, our ‘one day’ can add up to a massive change.” – Jack Monroe
Gabrielle is known as “Gabby Goes Green” on social media. It was difficult for her at first to transition to a plant-based diet because it required her to change her mindset not only about meat but also about cooking. She is an avid cookbook collector and believes she has far too many…
Her advice is to remember how this minor change in your life can benefit your health, the environment, and the reduction of animal cruelty. The most important message she wants to convey is to slow down. "When I first started my plant-based journey, I wanted to know and learn everything at once. This was not realistic; I had put myself in a situation where I would have no idea what to cook or buy. I also wish I had discovered Abillion and vegan food review apps sooner.”
Tyra-Leigh Findlay (Instagram)
“Just try it!”
Tyra-Leigh is a Cape Town student. She has met and bonded with so many like-minded people since adopting a plant-based lifestyle, and she finds the plant-based community to be supportive and inspiring.
Tyra suggests that you begin by making small changes in your life rather than attempting to make large changes all at once. She claims that this will just add pressure, and that if you make mistakes or order your coffee with milk instead of almond milk, you should be gentle with yourself. She recommends making conscious decisions when purchasing food and other household products and making sure you buy earth friendly products.
“Moving over to a completely plant based lifestyle taught me so much about myself and the planet. Let’s inspire others to make the change towards a plant-based lifestyle.”
Nikki Botha (Instagram | Facebook)
“You won't ever stop evolving as an activist and a vegan. So don't ever assume you know more than those who preceded you. They fought, bled, cried, and sacrificed a lot so that you can walk the path you're walking. Walk the path with pride, grace, dignity and humility - always, always, always.”
Nikki works as a vegan chef and activist in Cape Town. She wants to remind people who are new to a plant-based lifestyle that it is a unique journey - eliminating animal products will be easier for some and more difficult for others. However, it's also a way to help the next generation and stand up for our planet.
Nikki advises people who are just starting their plant-based journeys to connect with other plant-based people and get involved in the South African plant-based community. "There are experts out there that have been on this journey for a very long time who have practical advice to assist you. Don't be afraid to ask!". Most importantly for Nikki, “Don't wait for someone to follow. Lead by example and let others follow YOU”.
Eugene Volkov (Instagram)
“Veganism is not only about food.”
Eugene has followed a plant-based diet since 2016 and now has a treasure chest of nutritious and mouth-watering recipes to choose and cook from. He is the owner and head chef of We Café, a vegetarian and vegan restaurant in Cape Town where his optimistic outlook and vegan-based approach sit at the heart of their culinary creations.
We Café's guiding principles are firmly rooted in the conviction that a plant based cuisine is diverse, unique and creates far less harm for the environment and living beings. For chef Eugene, nature has provided the choicest products, and it is up to us to figure out how to best prepare each one to bring out their own distinctive flavours.
Eugene’s advice (that he says he wishes he had followed from the beginning) to those starting on a healthy plant-based journey is to eat less junk food, more whole foods and try to avoid gluten, sugar and seed oils.
Lexi Monzeglio (Instagram)
“Don’t let perfect get in the way of good enough!”
Lexi is a Cape Town-based restaurateur and entrepreneur who founded the Lexi's Eatery restaurants.
At first, her goal to "eat more plants" meant that she ate less meat and fish until she stopped eating animals completely. "You will find a balance and rhythm that works for you, and giving yourself the space and forgiveness to figure out what that means will ensure a sustainable, long-term change that you can build on," Lexi explains.
The one thing she reminds other plant-based enthusiasts of is that other people's feelings shouldn't matter as much and that your decisions—especially those about what you eat—don't affect anyone else. "Your values and health matter." Not every aspect of life requires a label. You don't have to be a complete vegan to make a difference in the world. Every week, every day, or even a single meal makes a difference, both for your own health and for the rest of the world. So, do what you can today to help bring about change.
Dr. Nanine Wyma (LinkedIn)
“Eating a whole-food plant-based diet significantly improved my relationship with food. Plant-based eating is not about restriction; it is truly about abundance. There are sooo many fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts you can learn how to prepare and eat in a delicious way.”
Dr. Nanine is a medical doctor who also serves as the Programmes Manager at Proveg South Africa and the Managing Director of the Physicians Association for Nutrition South Africa.
First and foremost, she advises against going completely vegan overnight. While it is possible to be healthy while eating only plant-based foods, everybody is unique due to environmental and genetic factors. So go at your own pace based on your resources. If you want to improve your health, work with a dietitian and a doctor to make the necessary changes. Second, she always advises people (even those who are not primarily plant-based) to start by learning how to incorporate more lentils and beans into their diet.
Khensani Mothomogolo (Instagram)
“Find out what works for you, your body, and our planet!”
Khensani is a Johannesburg-based graduate sales representative. It was difficult for her to make the switch to a plant-based diet five years ago, but once she discovered what worked for her through research, she knew it was the right choice for her and our planet.
“It was difficult when I first transitioned five years ago because plant-based wasn't really popular. All I could eat at a restaurant was a bowl of fries, while all my friends got to eat full, hearty meals. Things have gotten better, and now I am genuinely having the greatest time in and out of the kitchen."
Donovan Will (Instagram)
“I thought that ditching animal products would limit my diet to boring food, but I can say without a doubt that the opposite was true; I eat a significantly more varied and interesting diet now than before making the switch.”
Donovan is an avid Ironman athlete and loves cooking vegan food. He is the director of Proveg South Africa and the Physicians Association for Nutrition South Africa.
Donovan challenges you to start small and participate in challenges such as Veganuary or the ProVeg Veggie Challenge, and to prioritise adding plant-based foods you enjoy (or are learning to enjoy) over focusing on what you're not eating. If you enjoy the taste of meat and dairy, experiment with as many meat and dairy alternatives as you can; many are delicious. Don't try to be perfect; instead, consider what changes you can make that will last. And make friends with people who are already thriving on the journey; there are a lot of us out there. Doing this on your own is usually much more difficult.
He wishes he had told himself to go online and look up all the different ways to cook tofu. It took him far too long to realise that tofu has a bad reputation because people don't know how to cook it properly!
Jane Nshuti (Instagram)
”Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.” – Hippocrates
Jane is a chef and plant-based recipe developer living in Cape Town.
She recommends that anyone considering a plant-based lifestyle learn how to prepare flavourful, whole-food plant-based meals. It is cheaper and healthier than processed foods; let everything else be an add-on. Learn to cook as well. Food is a fuel, but it should also taste good. Learn different techniques for making healthy food taste delicious.
Jessica Kotlowitz (Instagram)
“You can meet all of your nutrient needs and achieve long-term health on a plant-based diet.”
Jessica, dubbed "The Green Dietitian," believes that perfection is the enemy of progress. Every step you take toward a more plant-based lifestyle helps to improve the lives of farm animals and the future of our planet. She frequently tells her clients that they don't have to be perfect vegans. Instead, she advocates for making small, long-term, incremental changes.
Jessica tells people who are thinking of switching to a plant-based diet that she loves it and has never looked back. At first, changing her diet was hard and uncomfortable, but she has never missed eating animal products. After nine years, she still chooses to eat this way every day. You can follow her on Instagram at
Wethu Ngubo (Instagram)
“Plants are Power.”
Wetho is a plant-based triathlete and business development director based in Johannesburg. He now understands the mental strength and mindset required to follow a vegan diet. He suggests beginning with no meat once a week, then a meat-free week, and finally going completely plant-based.
He follows vegan thought leaders like the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, led by Dr. Neal Barnard.
Shinnai Visser (Instagram | TikTok)
“I stopped dairy first and then stopped eating meat thereafter. So, I went vegan in reverse!”
Shinnai, who goes by the name "Mindful Mama," owns Mindful Baba and works as a freelance social media and account manager. She promotes veganism, cruelty-free living, and conscious living.
She believes that it is critical to identify one’s motivation for going plant-based and then to stick to it. Is it for health reasons? Is it for the planet? Is it for the sake of the animals? Is it all of the above? She offers encouragement for those embarking on this journey: Know that you are doing an amazing thing and that you should be very proud of yourself. Mindful Mamma gave up dairy after watching a documentary 8 years ago and has never touched dairy products again; she then gave up meat.
She constantly reminds herself to be gentle with herself, and as a result, she says she sees the world changing around her! Being a vegan is becoming increasingly simple!
Megan Wessels (Instagram)
“Make one change a week, then one change a day. This way you won’t feel overwhelmed.”
Megan is a high-impact vegan hospitality consultant, and self-taught head baker and pastry chef of The Gypsy Kitchen vegan bakery. She believes in listening to your body and your gut.
To Megan and her family, veganism isn't just about what we consume; it's an everyday contribution. She supports making one change a week, then one change a day. That way, you won’t feel overwhelmed.
Talya Goldberg (Instagram | Twitter)
“Just do it - it's easier and much cheaper to follow and maintain this way of eating than you can even imagine.”
Talya Goldberg runs the VegfriendlyCapeTown Instagram account, where she documents her vegan and vegetarian travels. She also serves as the head of social media at King James.
She suggests that eating a plant-based diet is much simpler than you might think. Instead of focusing on what you're 'giving up,' think about all the amazing food you can eat.
Rosanne Howarth (Instagram | LinkedIn)
“Be kind, optimistic and active.”
Rosanne is a CFA Charterholder who believes in a vegan future and responsible investing.
She believes that once you understand the origins of food, you can only be vegan. She reminds people that they don't have to be perfect; they just have to do their best.
HealthyThandi (Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Website)
“Have fun with your plant-based journey; don't try to be perfect; take it at your own pace, and most importantly, tailor-make it to your budget and lifestyle. Being plant-based is a mindset.”
Thandi is a plant-based content creator who believes that eating plants is the healthiest choice you can make. It encourages you to try new vegetables and recipes and demonstrates that you may have always been a low-key plant-based eater, but you just didn't realise it.
She is the owner of the website www.healthyThandi.com, where she shares recipes, blogs, and sells e-books. In February 2023, she will release her 7-Day Vegan eBook.
She suggests following vegan-related hashtags to get recipe ideas and stay up to date on what's going on in the vegan community.
Mamaputle Boikanyo (Instagram)
“At the end of it all, plant-based foods and cooking will be an amazing experience for you. It's strange to explain it, but your love of food is likely to change, you'll experience textures and tastes differently, and most of all, your skin and your body are likely to thank you for it.”
Mamaputle is a freelance writer who gave up eating animals 14 years ago and has been following a plant-based diet for the last ten years. Her stand against animal cruelty is a powerful reason for her commitment to being plant-based. She believes that people who go plant-based and stick to it must have a pure and meaningful reason for doing so; only then can you overcome any obstacles along the way.
Everything in the world, according to Mamaputle, is connected: our beliefs, our behaviours, our actions, and their impact on the spaces around us and the world at large. “Going plant-based or vegan reflects not only your understanding of the world and its interconnectedness, but also how much you truly value life. It is the ultimate manifestation of your empathy and recognition that life, no matter how big or small, matters”.
Banesa Tseki (Instagram | Twitter | Facebook)
“This journey is going to feel like a powerful step in both surrender and humility, but ultimately it will be about making your inner and outer world a more peaceful place.”
Banesa is a brand strategist and yoga & wellness entrepreneur. She believes that making mistakes is perfectly acceptable. "It's okay if this journey isn't easy, and it's okay if people around you think you're strange or different... What matters is that you are attempting to do the right thing, whether for yourself, Mother Earth, or the animals".
She reminds people that being a vegan can be challenging, but once you see how good it makes you feel and look, you will always strive to live this way. It's a difficult pill to swallow, but the world needs more imperfect vegans doing their best.
Zoe Twala (Instagram | TikTok)
“Going plant-based in 2023 is more affordable than you think - instead of chicken and rice try chickpeas and rice. Making a change as simple as eating beans instead of meat can cut your grocery bills in half.”
Zoe is a customer service representative from Springs. She believes that converting your favourite foods to plant-based alternatives is the best way to begin your journey toward making plant-based eating a lifestyle rather than a crash diet. If you enjoy baking, concentrate on learning how to make plant-based cakes. After you've mastered that, move on to other dishes. She promotes planning and meal preparation as a means of achieving success.
Whether you're a vegan for health, animals, or the environment, the best thing you can do is transition in a way that works for you.
Emma-Claire Peter (Instagram)
“Have fun with your food; often the simplest, least complicated food is the tastiest and healthiest for you.”
Meet Emma-Claire Peter, a culinary innovator and curator for The Plant Powered Show, Africa's ultimate celebration of plant-based food, drink, and conscious living. She encourages everyone to have fun with their food and reminds us that the simplest, least complicated foods often nourish the body and soul the best.
Having realised the benefits of plant-based living, Emma-Claire has not regrets transitioning to this lifestyle, except for not starting earlier. She encourages others to create a weekly routine as she does with making her own nut milk, to ensure you always have delicious and conscious food and drink options on hand.
Emma-Claire also understands that being vegan doesn't automatically equate to being healthy, and advises everyone to be mindful of their approach to plant-based eating. She recognises that South Africa still has a long way to go in being inclusive of vegans/plant-based eaters, particularly on restaurant menus, but remains optimistic about the change that's hopefully on the horizon.
Johke Steenkamp (Instagram)
“By making plant-based eating accessible it is possible to make a difference in the world. Making even the smallest difference still means making a difference.”
Johke Steenkamp is the owner and chef behind Grumpty & Runt, a vegan bakery in Cape Town known for their mouth-watering hand-crafted donuts. With a passion for sharing her knowledge, Johke encourages others to explore the world of plant-based cooking through recipes, blogs, and social media.
“Switching to a plant-based lifestyle can feel intimidating but once you set the fears aside and start learning, it’s easy and delicious.” She encourages everyone to start simple and cook as much as possible, not putting pressure on yourself to learn everything at once.
Johke reminds us that the best ingredients and techniques don't have to be expensive or complicated, and wishes she had educated herself on this principle earlier in her journey.
Robyn Horwitz (Instagram)
“A simple place to start is to look at the food you like to eat and the meals you like to make and think of how to veganise them, rather than stressing about about new recipes and meals you have never seen before.”
Robyn Horwitz is an entrepreneur and consultant, passionate about promoting a plant-based lifestyle. She shares delicious recipes, reviews, and recommendations on her main page, Vegan Things, and extensive directory of all things plant-based for those seeking vegan options in South Africa. She also organises a monthly Vegan Things Night Market in Jozi, and hosts secret dinner parties for SecretEATS and Eat More Greens in Jozi and Cape Town - all plant-based of course!
Robyn’s journey to plant-based living began gradually, but as she delved deeper, she realised the greater impact it had on the world. Robyn is always happy to share her expertise on veganism with her followers and friends, from restaurant suggestions to recipe ideas, and anything in between!
Caz Karssing (Instagram | TikTok)
“Only when the last tree has died and the last river been poisoned and the last fish been caught will we realize we cannot eat money” - Cree Indian Proverb
Meet Caz Karssing, a believer in progress over perfection when it comes to living a vegan lifestyle. Caz is the Editor and Social Media Manager for Vegan SA, the ultimate online vegan guide in South Africa, offering a comprehensive directory of vegan-friendly restaurants, shops, products, and accommodation.
For her, the most important thing is taking that first step towards a more conscious way of living, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. She knows that starting can be daunting, but she encourages everyone to take it one day at a time, and to not be discouraged by naysayers. Caz firmly believes that being a vegan doesn't have to be complicated, and that every effort counts towards making a positive impact on our planet and its inhabitants.
Lee & Braidy Connolly (Instagram)
“Do what makes you feel good and follow your own path to YOUR most ideal plant-based lifestyle. A balanced plant-based lifestyle is what we're all about!”
Lee and Braidy Connolly are the directors and creative minds behind Vegan Streetfood, a bespoke eatery that captures the spirit of plant-based fusion food. Their 100% vegan cuisine is rooted in heart, body, and soul.
For Lee and Braidy, education is key. They encourage everyone to learn about the truths of animal agriculture, egg and dairy industries through documentaries, immersion in the vegan community, and visits to vegan establishments. They believe that once you do this, “you will find that you not only CAN adopt a plant-based lifestyle, but that you will WANT to."
The duo also promotes a balanced approach to plant-based living, encouraging everyone to not “let others dictate what your version of your vegan lifestyle may look like." Follow what feels right for you, whether that be whole foods or plant-based burgers and pies.
These are just some of the incredible people who make a difference to the plant-based community.
If their work inspires you, you can connect with them by clicking on the links. The more you support them, the more people will help them with their work. You can share this article by using the #PBSA link on social media. If you believe that anyone has been left off the list, that is someone we should include. Please contact us.
Optimise for Surprise
Understanding Surprise will improve the overall performance of your content.
Social media is a hunt for novelty. But why are we do we feel so compelled to like and share our finds? It turns out, we share or we die.
The thrill of discovery is fueled by dopamine, a neurotransmitter that activates when we're pleasantly surprised but not when we're merely satisfied. Evolutionary biologists have theorised that this is why we're driven to find new things. “Dopamine isn’t interested in what’s expected; it’s interested in what’s surprising so it can help you learn about your environment,” says Robb Rutledge, a researcher at University College London. “Your happiness depends on whether things are getting better or worse, and knowing that can help you make better decisions in the future.”
If one of our ancestors encountered a surprise - for example, picking a harmless-looking berry that makes them ill – they’d find out what happened, shift their perspective about which berries are safe to eat, and then share the experience with others so they don’t make the same mistake. Thus ensuring the happy, healthy survival of their family line. That’s assuming they survived that pesky berry.
This also applies to things that surprise us socially. Nothing spreads faster than a juicy piece of gossip about someone in our community. It is possible that gossip regulates behavior and establishes morality in close-knit communities. The more surprising, the more it spreads. This is why we sometimes say that whispers go further than shouts.
This plays out in the same way in digital contexts and communities. Every day the media does its utmost to share surprising news with us. Most news incidents are anomalies, and this is often what makes them news-worthy. The more surprising they are, the faster they spread. The offshoot is that we learn something new about the world we live in, because when something surprises us, it usually teaches us something, too.
Surprise isn’t an emotion in itself, but it applies to all emotions. A happy surprise makes us happier, a surprising joke is funnier, an unexpected sadness is sadder. This is crucial for being remembered, becae as all good teachers know - emotions are crucial for embedding learning.
You can work with this: if you want more people to talk about a piece of news then really amplify the surprise factor. If you want the news or information to be ignored, make it really boring. This is why tech companies don’t like leaks - they want to control the surprise sequence for when their product is ready for market.
The Surprise Sequence
In their book Surprise: Embrace the Unpredictable and Engineer the Unexpected (2015), Tania Luna and Leeann Renninger describe the ‘surprise sequence’ that they observed through numerous studies in the field of social psychology. Put simply, these steps are 1) Freeze, 2) Find, 3) Shift, and 4) Share. This simple four step framework can give us powerful insight into what kind of content spreads on social media, and how we can use that insight to ensure our ideas get more share-time. But let's have a look at how it works in the real world.
‘Surprise: Embrace the Unpredictable and Engineer the Unexpected’, Tania Luna and Leeann Renninger
Imagine you arrive home late one evening after work, turn on the lights, and as you do, ten of your good friends jump out from behind assorted bits of furniture and yell, ‘Surprise!’ Your first reaction will likely be of the frozen and shocked variety, this is the Freeze phase - you stop whatever else you were doing. Next you’ll likely attempt to find out what exactly is going on. ‘When did you people plan this!? How did you get in?!’. Then you’ll shift, perhaps into a more relaxed mood, or perhaps you’ll decide to stop leaving your spare key under the pot outside your door. Lastly, you’ll probably share the experience with others - Facebook, Instagram, and of course in person. The bigger the surprise the more you’ll want to share it. Did a friend spoil you with a surprise visit? Worth a mention to someone. Did a friend spoil you with holiday? Worth a good few more.
People are looking out for things that will make us safer, happier and more socially connected. It’s in our DNA to do so. Social media is driven by these instinctual urges. We’re looking for connection, insight, and possibly shock and awe so we know what NOT to do. When we find stuff that surprises us, we’ll usually share it - with the amount of sharing we do proportionate to the level of newness we are experiencing. News editors and social media influencers know how to work with this: they’re constantly on the lookout for the unexpected, the surprising, the new. And it’s usually related to security, happiness and social cohesion. Change is the soul of story, and of surprise.
So, ask yourself, ‘What can I do differently with this in mind?’ If you want your content to spread, remember that the basis of a good story may well be rooted in the surprise sequence:
1. Surprise! Capture attention with a surprising headline, and image that stands out in the news feed.
2. Find. Engage curiosity, draw people in beyond the headline - are you credible, is the topic relevant, who else shared it, is there an appropriate curiosity gap.
3. Shift. Make sense of the surprise. You don’t want your content dismissed as clickbait, so give substance to your content and make it understandable. If people are confused or disappointed they won't get to the all important next step... If your content is genuinely surprising and emotive, people will have a state change, a perspective shift, an aha moment, a lesson... they'll "twig"! This is what you want. You’re changing minds and making lives better!
4. Share. Make your content and surprise easy for people to share right away - a timely nudge could work wonders. Is your call to action clear? Do you ask for the share? Is there a button I can press to make sharing easier?
If you believe in your ideas, it's your job to make them non-boring! Bring them to life by engineering a bit of surprise in how you present them. And next time you hesitate before sharing a piece of news, just remember that the survival of our species may just depend on it.
6 things we’ve learned from the Lewis Pugh Foundation’s social media journey.
Starting from a zero base we have had significant organic growth in reach on the Lewis Pugh Foundation accounts. Here are 6 things that are working for us.
The Lewis Pugh Foundation (LPF) works to preserve and conserve our oceans for a peaceful and sustainable future. A big part of that is ensuring that the foundation brand is top-of-mind among ocean conservationists, funders, and policy makers.
Starting with a zero base, we frequently have individual posts reaching 100k+ organic views and have grown a very loyal and influential community around the account. This has translated directly into meaningful relationships, opportunities and impact for the foundation.
Here are 6 simple learnings from our journey with the Lewis Pugh Foundation’s social media.
6 Learnings from the LPF’s Social Media
Be Educational
Tap Into Trends and Issues
Do a Deep Dive
Make it Easy to Fall in Love
Say it with Video
Celebrate the Community
Let’s explore these in more detail.
1. Be Educational
Beautifully designed educational material performs well on the Lewis Pugh Foundation’s social media accounts. They also age well and can be reused and repurposed into other formats like posters.
2. Tap into trends and issues
To be an authority on a specific topic means that you need to be tapped into the zeitgeist. Being at the forefront of the latest developments, and having an opinion on that, gives you a position of authority and trust - two things that can set you up for social media success.
This is true on significant themes, like when we were one of the first accounts to post about Shell’s seismic blasting off South Africa’s Wild Coast. But it is also true in more straightforward and playful ways, like when we quickly adapted a powerful monologue about ocean animals for TikTok and garnered over a million organic views.
3. Do a deep dive
Step aside, blogpost; the Twitter thread is here! We are increasingly seeing lengthy, well-researched twitter threads that quickly encapsulate or explain complex issues. It’s a winner in terms of time and attention and one we like to use to engage our community.
It’s also a great lesson in using specific features of a platform like Twitter in the most effective way possible. Test and learn; you never know which feature may give you a new opportunity to present your content differently.
4. Make it Easy to Fall in Love
Sometimes we just post images of cute, quirky and wonderful ocean creatures. Why? Because people love this stuff, and we protect what we love. It’s a great way to bring people into the cause.
Everyone likes the cute stuff! Luckily for us, nature gives us so much to work with here.
5. Say it with Video.
We try to produce short and subtitled explainer videos as often as possible. The combination of moving visuals and text helps us convey a lot of information quickly. It’s thumb-stopping content that, importantly, can be viewed sound on or off.
6. Celebrate the Community
When we look at a specific ocean-related conservation theme, such as kelp, we always compile a list of key people doing pioneering work in the field. We follow them, talk to them, and celebrate their accomplishments. This provides access to new information, introductions to other leaders in the field, and an easy way to connect with all the right people when it comes time to push for policy change or raise public awareness about the issue.
Consider our most recent article, 21 Voices for Kelp. The voices on the list do not all have a large or active social media following. Still, because the list was so beautifully curated and the individuals chosen so credible and respected, the list was circulated throughout the kelp community. We have been inundated with nominations for our next list on the topic!
You can read the full, and beautifully compiled article on the LPF website here: Voices for Kelp, and see all the social media chatter we started with the #lovekelp hashtag.
learn more as you follow
Follow the Lewis Pugh Foundation here:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LewisPughFDN (Bonus: here’s the top performing posts)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lewispughfoundation/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lewispughfdn/
