South Africa has long been a country close to my heart…
Even from a young age, it was clear to me that one day I would like to get involved in a voluntary project working with animals. Animals give us so much, and I wanted to give something back and help protect them. At the same time, I was very wary of setting off on my own, and for a long time I couldn’t find a project that really felt right. Because there’s one thing I’ve learnt over the years: unfortunately, there are many schemes where animals are exploited rather than receiving sustainable protection.
That’s exactly why it was important to me to find a project that provides genuine help and operates responsibly. By chance, I then came across Jana’s group trip. At first I was unsure and hesitant, but eventually I plucked up the courage and signed up. Today I can say with complete conviction: it was one of the best decisions of my life.
What began as a holiday quickly became an experience that touched me deeply and left a lasting impression. From the very first moment, I felt the special magic of this place. The centre is situated in the heart of nature, surrounded by mountains, far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There is a tranquillity there that is almost impossible to describe – a tranquillity that both grounds you and gives you strength.
After just a short time, I felt as though I’d truly arrived. I was particularly impressed by the dedication and passion with which Elli and the whole team look after the animals. You can sense straight away that the animals’ welfare comes first here. Every task, every encounter and every day had a purpose and showed me just how important sustainable wildlife conservation is. Working with the animals, being close to nature and living alongside people who share the same passion made this time truly unforgettable for me.
It’s the little moments, above all, that have stayed with me: chopping fruit and vegetables together, cleaning the enclosures in the morning and getting soaking wet in the process, laughing together, or simply sitting there quietly and watching the animals. Feeling, over time, how the baby and young monkeys came to trust me more and more was something very special. Seeing how a cautious distance slowly turned into familiarity touched me deeply. Oh, sometimes I miss the sweet sounds of the little ones incredibly much.
Outside of work, too, there were so many moments that made this time special: joint safaris in Kruger National Park, hikes to the waterfall and many lovely encounters with the locals. It was precisely these shared experiences, conversations and time spent together that showed me just how warm-hearted the local people are and made this trip something truly special, far beyond just a volunteering project.
After returning to Switzerland, I was unexpectedly overcome by a strong feeling of homesickness – for that place, the people, the animals and the special feeling that had accompanied me there. It quickly became clear to me: I have to go back. So I didn’t hesitate for long and booked the group trip with Jana straight away.
I’m all the more delighted to be returning again this year and to be able to support Jana’s group tour with all the experience and knowledge I’ve gained so far. It feels very special to be able to give something back of what this place itself has given me.
South Africa has long been a country close to my heart, but through Helping Hands 4 Wildlife – thanks to Jana and Elli – I’ve found my very own spiritual home.
Martina, retreat participant and volunteer from Switzerland
Helping Hands for Wildlife thrives on the support of people who share our vision. #teamvervet brings together people from all over the world who want to take responsibility and make a real difference.
Join us on our journey – together, we’ll give orphaned and injured animals a second chance.