Weekend Highlights: Nature, Culture & Joy with the 2nd Cohort of Girls

This past weekend, 27 young girls from our second cohort embarked on an unforgettable educational journey, blending nature, history, and joy to inspire wonder, deepen cultural understanding, and celebrate spring in the Western Cape.

West Coast National Park: A Living Canvas of Spring

The adventure began at the breathtaking West Coast National Park, where the girls witnessed South Africa’s spectacular spring flower bloom. The Postberg section, open only during flower season, displayed vivid carpets of orange daisies, purple vygies, and delicate white blooms.

Among the blossoms, the girls saw ostriches strutting and springboks leaping, adding wild magic to the day. For many, it was their first time seeing these animals up close—a moment of awe and excitement.

 !Khwa ttu: Walking in the Footsteps of the First People

The next stop was !Khwa ttu, a heritage centre dedicated to the San people, Southern Africa’s first inhabitants. Through storytelling, tours, and exhibits, the girls learned about the San’s connection to nature, their tracking skills, and cultural traditions.

Highlights included:

• A San-self guided walk, where the girls learned to “read the land” through footprints, plants, and wind patterns.

• A visit to the Heritage Centre, where history came alive through multimedia displays and personal stories.

• A taste of traditional cuisine, sparking conversations about sustainability and indigenous knowledge.

Beachside Reflections & Joy

The day ended with laughter and play at the beach, where the girls splashed in the waves, built sandcastles, and shared reflections on what they had learned. It was a joyful close to a day filled with discovery, connection, and growth.

Voices from the Trip

"It felt amazing as I witnessed nature in full bloom, vibrant and colourful. I couldn't resist capturing its beauty in photos." ~ Imange Maxhela, age 14 years " I discovered that the San people were the earliest inhabitants of South Africa. I also learned that in those times, the weather would change when someone passed away, and similarly, it would change when a woman gave birth" ~ Busisiwe Golela , age 13 years

"I felt incredibly privileged and honoured to be at the beach. It was wonderful to be there, as it had been a very long time since my last visit." ~ Esihle Penza, age 14

Why This Matters

This excursion was more than just a journey—it served as a living classroom. It fostered curiosity, enhanced cultural awareness, and reminded our girls of their connection to a rich and diverse heritage. As we keep investing in youth development, experiences like these are crucial in shaping confident, knowledgeable, and empathetic leaders.