At Sibuya, we’re privileged to witness many acts of compassion and courage in the wild – but few inspire us quite like this one. The learners of Lilyfontein School’s Eco Club recently rallied their entire school community to raise an incredible R37 189 in support of the Sibuya Rhino Foundation. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and commitment to conservation remind us that the next generation is already stepping up to protect the planet.
Our relationship with Lilyfontein, a government school situated on a farm on the Eastern outskirts of East London, stretches back several years, founded on shared values of environmental awareness and action. As a proud Eco-Schools institution, Lilyfontein weaves eco-learning into daily life – from permaculture gardens and recycling projects to hands-on lessons in sustainability and stewardship. The school’s Eco Club embodies this ethos, teaching learners that small actions, taken together, can make a world of difference.
This year’s fundraising drive saw learners, parents, and teachers unite under a common goal: helping protect Sibuya’s rhinos. Every Rand raised directly supports our Anti-Poaching Unit and K9 team, whose tireless work safeguards these magnificent animals from the ongoing threat of poaching. Along the way, there was plenty of excitement and healthy competition. This included weekly lucky draws sponsored by generous local businesses, to the light-hearted moment when the top fundraising class, Grade 5L, earned the honour of shaving educator, Mr Schemel’s head! Alongside this, lessons in conservation took place in the classrooms, bringing greater awareness to the plight of the rhino and other endangered species. Special mention goes to Rachael McMaster, the Lilyfontein learner who raised the highest individual amount and won a well-deserved game drive.
For our team at Sibuya, partnerships like this one reaffirm why we do what we do. Protecting rhinos is not just a task for rangers and conservationists – it’s a calling that belongs to all of us. When young people choose to care, learn, and take action, the ripple effects extend far beyond our reserve’s boundaries.
We extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to the learners, educators, and families of Lilyfontein School. Your energy and generosity strengthen our mission and give us renewed hope for the wild places we fight to protect every day.
Learn more about the Sibuya Rhino Foundation.
