Umzi Wethu

Regular wilderness trails provide opportunities for students to encounter and connect with the beauty and power of their natural world. Students are given the opportunity to heal through nature, self-reflect, as well as engage in broader environmental issues. Through time in the wilderness, students learn from elders and guides about traditional indigenous knowledge, “leave no trace” principles, and begin to understand and develop conservation ethics which will stay with them forever.

Teamwork, initiative, perseverance and leadership qualities are instilled on the wilderness trails as students face many new challenges together. Through this process students build self-awareness and self- esteem as well as respect for others and the environment. Trails also introduce students to practical conservation skills, which they take with them into their world.

“Nature is the most important thing in our lives because without nature we are nothing. We have to be proud of nature and even respect it." Umzi 6 Student

“As I was sitting alone something shifted in me. I was thinking about my life and I thought whatever decision I make has an impact on my life…I immediately connected with nature...As a young, motivated person I feel more strong and intelligent than before because of Umzi, Umzi erased all that shyness in me, I never thought I could speak out in front of young people. I’m more positive in my life and I’m looking forward to a brighter and healthier future." Umzi 7 Student

“This is the best thing I’ve ever experienced in my life; you get to know yourself better when you’re here. I enjoyed every second of it…At first I was very worried to hear that we will be crossing the river in water, we’ll be climbing mountains, but at the very same time I said to myself, it’s fine, if it doesn’t kill me it will make me stronger."  Anelisa (Umzi 7)

“I realise something that I did not want to notice, that I am an African woman, I am strong and I can do everything that I want to if I tell myself." Umzi 7 Student

“We always debate in res why we go on trails and every time we are here I just feel connected to a real me. Someone to whom I can relate to. Just to be me!" Umzi 7 Student

“Wow, what a wonderful place…well people change, I now find myself very interested in nature…I’ve learnt that nature needs to be taken good care of." Luzuko (Umzi 7)

“I found out that I’m good and that I can do anything if I believe and put my mind to it. I also found out that nature needs to be protected because it is the most beautiful thing on earth. I realised the ability and physical strength that I didn’t know I had. The trail was fascinating and revealing. The climbing of the mountain was an eye opener that made me realise that life is good and challenging." Umzi 6 student

“Umfolozi was great, fantastic, life changing... I had a lot of time to think about myself and my career, family and everything. Nature spoke to me like she never spoke to me before. What a blessed experience....This is where I want to be." Umzi 6 Student