The initiative formed part of the SANParks week (10-14 September), that permits South African residents free day visits to most of the 21 national parks, with special emphasis on ensuring that people from local communities close to the parks get to know and experience a national park. NMBT took advantage of this initiative to showcase Addo Elephant National Park which is home of the big seven.
"I have the privilege of being a proud ambassador of the destination whilst being a leader and example to our youth. Nelson Mandela Bay has an abundance of tourism offerings for visitors and locals, therefore allowing me to share fun opportunities with the youth alongside sharing the importance of tourism for our city," expressed Boloko.
NutriStart also came on board to start the group off with a healthy breakfast prior to embarking on the trip to Addo Elephant National Park. The activity gave the children the opportunity to learn about the natural heritage of the Bay, whilst experiencing the park’s beautiful scenery and wildlife up-close. This proved to be a great experience to the many that have never witnessed this before.
Commenting on the significance of this collaboration during Tourism Month, NMBT CEO Mandlakazi Skefile said: "The youth are our future travellers and ambassadors of the destination, and it is important that NMBT make efforts like these to educate and encourage them to experience attractions like the Addo Elephant National Park among many others. It is also a great privilege to partner with Mr PE Ubermann to enrich the lives of the kids from Khayalethu Youth Centre with authentic experiences like these."
"Today was truly an amazing experience for our children. Seeing their faces light up as they got to experience the wildlife up close was priceless. We wish to thank NMBT and Ofentse for their dedication and effort to our children. We are very grateful for their support," concluded Marietjie van der Merwe, head of the Khayalethu Youth Centre.
