They say that the purpose of travel is to broaden the mind, to find out about other cultures and to find out more about yourself.
In August 2009, The Wilderness Foundation UK launched a unique leadership programme for young women, taking place in South Africa.
The expedition runs for three weeks, taking in a wilderness expedition on foot that covers three ecosystems (wetlands, mountain and game reserve), two of which are World Heritage Sites and all have designated wilderness classification – meaning they have no infrastructure and can only be reached on foot, by canoe or on horse back. Each has its own special character and challenges.
In addition to the trail the group spend five days living in a small Zulu community settlement, staying in pairs with selected Zulu host families and working on projects with community members. Both parts of the programme count towards the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.
The UK participants are matched with young South African women of the same age. They will form part of a scholarship scheme established by the students fund raising programme. Depending on their individual situations, the South Africans are expected to make a contribution towards the wilderness trail, and are selected for their leadership potential.
The programme seeks to develop the following in all the young women it will engage:
- personal development and communication skills
- judgement and decision making
- tolerance in diversity
- self awareness and personal vision
- reflection for learning
- environmental awareness
This project is unique and aims to develop young women leaders for the future, giving them tools to make a contribution to positive social and environmental change in their future lives.
The cost of the programme is estimated at £3,000 including the costs of the South African students’ wilderness trail.
Click here to read the Wild Swans launch briefing
For further information on future opportuntities to join the Wild Swans programme please contact Jo Roberts
