Proudly South African
on Sep 12, 2018Heritage* is what makes us proud of who we are today. Practices, traditions, language and legacy allow us to relate to people from similar backgrounds and mindsets. It also enables us to connect with individuals from upbringings far removed from our own, by sharing our stories and building relationships based on trust, understanding and shared goals.
At Sabi Sabi, a diverse group of passionate conservationists work in unison toward the common goal of true South African hospitality at a luxury home away from home in the bush. Almost four decades ago, the intention of offering an unrivalled destination to guests from all over the globe, underpinned by 5-star service, was the foundation of the Sabi Sabi philosophy. Providing a sense of place and belonging not only to our team but to the myriad of guests who have seen this pioneering game reserve reach new heights of excellence, is what distinguishes us. We are bound together by one common purpose – that being to warmly welcome our guests to our lodges and reserve, and for them to return home with stories of the safari experience of a lifetime.
Heritage allows us to understand who we are. We are proudly South African. Whatever our background, those privileged to work here love our work and our country very deeply and we take our responsibility as custodians of this wildlife oasis in all earnest. Conservation and Community is at the heart of Sabi Sabi and we remind ourselves constantly that our role is to merely observe the wondrous circle of life that unfolds. Protecting the wilderness from harm and touching the earth lightly with our presence, enable us to create a sanctuary for the flora and fauna that resided here first, and allow future generations the privilege to experience Mother Nature in her truest form.
Our respect and love for the wilderness is shared with our indigenous communities and through eco-tourism initiatives Sabi Sabi creates stable employment and provides livelihood to thousands. We believe that heritage is also about supporting, encouraging and appreciating each other. It is our hope to facilitate these communities with the necessary resources to preserve both their tangible and intangible heritage. The latest resource that has come to fruition – driven by the needs of the community - is the newly opened Digital Learning Centre campus in Lillydale. Together with the GWF (Good Work Foundation) and other donors, Sabi Sabi is proud to be part of this potentially life-changing project, which is a state-of-the-art digital arena. The aim is that this initiative will be a driving force into educating any learners (younger and older) in a digital syllabus which will equip them into navigating the world of technology, thereby broadening their horizons to a bright and opportunity filled future. Our hope is that this project will be part of our heritage into securing hope and possibility for future generations.
No matter our individual preferences, the conservation of a rapidly dwindling wilderness is a collective golden thread weaved through the soul of Sabi Sabi. The wilderness is vital to mankind. For it is here where we strengthen our bonds with the earth and delve deep to our own roots. We find peace in the wilderness, as it provides answers to so many things, mostly to where we belong.
* Heritage Day is celebrated in South Africa on the 24th September. A day where all South Africans are encouraged to celebrate their individual culture and the diversity of our nation.