Guests were greeted with cool drinks and wide smiles as they arrived, their excitement matched only by the vibrant energy of the Djembe Drummers from Southern Cross School. With the camp team guiding tours through the upgraded facilities, and young Rhino Art finalists settling into creative activities under the shade of a tree, the buzz of joyful conversation filled the air.
Just as the last few arrivals settled in, all attention turned to our open-aired classroom and dining area. Like a spark igniting a flame, the Roots of Rhythm dance troupe burst into life – their soulful voices, vibrant colours and energetic moves lifting the morning to new heights. It was the perfect crescendo to a morning filled with anticipation.
Then, as the final drumbeats faded, a hush fell over the crowd. Richard Mabanga of Project Rhino stepped forward, adorned in his traditional Zulu attire. A passionate Rhino Ambassador and long-time friend of Koru founder Peter Eastwood, Richard brought his signature energy and deep wisdom to the fore as he effortlessly reminded us of the cultural, emotional and historical ties that bind people and wildlife together.
His words paved the way beautifully for Koru Camp CEO, Corné Havenga, who delivered her own message of gratitude and purpose.
“The No Coincidence Theory suggests that when the right moments and the right people come together, extraordinary things can happen,” she shared. “It’s a reminder that sometimes, events align beyond our understanding, guiding us toward growth, change, and opportunity. I believe that it’s no coincidence that many of our paths, sitting here today, have crossed — and together we are driving positive change, rooted in connection, community and conservation.”
That theme of connection echoed powerfully throughout the day. A heartfelt speech by Peter Eastwood, whose unwavering belief in nature’s ability to shift mindsets and change lives first sparked the idea for Koru Camp. In fact, it was his early friendship with legendary explorer and humanitarian Kingsley Holgate, built on a shared passion for wilderness and community, that brought Rhino Art into being — with Peter seed-funding the idea back in 2013.
So it was only fitting that Kingsley Holgate himself stepped forward next with his unique warmth, to honour the finalists of our Rhino Art Competition. Selected from over 350 entries submitted through 10 different NGOs, each child had used colours, words, and imagination to lend their voice to our threatened wildlife. The finalists received a certificate to sweeping applause and an invitation to return to Koru for a dedicated 2-night conservation camp — whilst the top three earned exciting prizes including art supplies, storybooks, and school essentials. As each name was called, pride lit up their faces, proof that when you give young people a platform, they rise to it.
Afterwards, the celebration continued with a delicious vegetarian feast prepared by Head Chef Tinyiko and her team. Guests wandered between interactive activity stations and displays, while children took part in educational games led by our guiding team. Laughter and learning flowed side by side.
To close the day, guests gathered for a symbolic tree-planting ceremony – a gesture of hope and growth for the future. Kingsley then raised his iconic calabash to mark the beginning of his next journey: an expedition to Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique. And finally, the ribbon was cut – and the newly renovated Koru Camp was officially declared open.
For the NGOs and communities we work with, Koru is more than a camp. It’s a promise – a space where underserved local communities can sleep to the sound of lions, learn about wildlife, and fall in love with the natural world. With expanded facilities, upgraded accommodation, and dedicated classroom and activity areas, we are now better equipped than ever to create meaningful experiences in nature and welcome thousands more participants in the years ahead. Havenga reiterated “At the new Koru Camp, the magic of falling in love with wildlife can continue – where our communities and NGOs can feel at home and share this beautiful landscape with those who have long been excluded.”
Our deepest gratitude goes out to Peter – our founder, visionary and biggest supporter, to the Koru Camp team and everyone who joined us, supported us, or sent words of encouragement. And to every partner who stands beside us, thank you for believing in a more inclusive future for conservation.
As Corné closed her speech, she said it best:
“Thank you for your continued support in our shared mission – because we are stronger together. May the seed we plant here continue to grow in many future conservationists.”
Here’s to the next chapter — rooted in purpose, community and collaboration.
I was totally blown away by the new space and everything you have achieved. Well done Koru Camp team!
Candice Timbavati Foundation