WORLD YOUTH WILDLIFE SUMMIT
Vet Books for Africa had the privilege of volunteering at the World Youth Wildlife Summit of 2019. It was held at the South African Wildlife College in Timbavati game reserve, in the Kruger National Park. During this time the team helped wherever they could to contribute towards the success of the summit. It turned out to be a successful summit indeed, where 200 young conservation leaders from across the world came together to address the issue of wildlife crime and what we can do to protect our animals for generations to come.
The Summit began with a symbolic silent march in which everyone acknowledged the fallen rangers, late conservationists and everyone else who have lost their lives in the line of duty for conservation. During the Summit, various guest speakers who are prominent leaders in the field of conservation spoke to us about pressing issues we are facing with our wildlife in South Africa. Indaba sessions were held intermittently to engage with the youth to form resolutions against the issues presented. We were also treated with a visit to Hoedspruit Endangered Species Center, as well as a game drive in the Kruger Park.
It was incredibly special to be part of such an event, with so many people passionate about conservation together in one place, putting their minds, hearts and souls into coming up with practical solutions against poaching and other types of wildlife crime. The Kingsley Holsgate Foundation, Project Rhino KZN and African Wildlife Trust among others, were the main drivers and organizers behind this amazing initiative.
Vet Books for Africa is fueled with renewed passion for our own mission after seeing at the Summit how important conservation is and what immense role education plays in the fight for our animals!