Educate & Conserve
Our Mission
FOVS’ mission is to educate and conserve. We achieve this through designing and implementing impactful projects and programmes, developed in consultation with our key partners, incorporating the voices of the neighbouring community.
The desired impact is to see both positive and lasting change in our conservation efforts and in building sustainable livelihoods. Special emphasis is placed on empowering women and youth skills development and creating nature-based “green jobs.”
Take a look at our programmes:
Conservation Internship Programme (CIP)
Selected participants from the local community are offered the opportunity to work, learn, and acquire skills through a 12-month programme on the Wildflower Reserve.
The programme aims to introduce the interns into becoming competent conservation and eco-tourism professionals. It blends hands-on experiential learning led by experts in conservation, botany, and tourism with formal coursework, providing the interns with a comprehensive and practical learning experience.
The expected outcomes are:
- Interns either employed by NMBM on the Wildflower Reserve (NMBM as the management agent), or by one of the project partners (including FOVS);
- Interns take advantage of any development opportunities that arise from the programme or as a result of the programme; or
- Absorbed into the greater wildlife and tourism industry as a skilled and experienced professional.
Conservation Intern 2024 Testimonial:
“I am proud of the work I am doing at the Wildflower Reserve. I feel connected to nature and have a deep sense of purpose and connection to the contribution I am making as a woman in my community as well as helping to make a difference in protecting our environment.”
SIPHOKAZI “SIPHO” MTENGWANA
Alien Invasive Plant Control Programme (AIPCP)
FOVS understands the significant threat Alien Invasive Plants (AIPs) pose to biodiversity. These invasive species outcompete indigenous vegetation, disrupt ecosystems, and jeopardise water resources.
Addressing this challenge requires a long-term, landscape-scale approach, blending conservation and collaboration across the Van Stadens River catchment area.
With the support of valued partners and donors, FOVS is working to restore ecological balance while fostering sustainable livelihoods through:
Partnering with Local SMMEs
FOVS collaborates with local SMMEs to carry out AIP clearing projects to an extremely high standard. Thereby creating economic opportunities while grounding the work in the community. Teams are trained in effective AIP management and equipped with tools and PPE to ensure safe and efficient operations.Empowering Communities Through Conservation
Through mentorship and capacity-building, FOVS equips SMMEs with essential business skills, such as quoting, invoicing, and project management. These skills empower contractors to grow their businesses, secure future contracts, and contribute to broader conservation efforts in the region.
A Landscape-Scale FocusRecognizing the widespread nature of AIPs, the programme addresses AIP management across the Reserve while supporting restoration efforts across the entire catchment. Beyond clearing, teams maintain trails, firebreaks, and public spaces, ensuring the Wildflower Reserve remains vibrant and resilient.
Join Us in Restoring Balance
FOVS encourages local landowners to collaborate with trained SMMEs to address AIPs on their properties. Together, we can expand these efforts, restore biodiversity, and create lasting change.Your support is essential in driving this vital work forward. Contributions to AIPCP help scale these initiatives and protect our shared natural heritage.
Get in touch to learn more or donate to this critical cause. Together we can make a difference.
Entrepreneur Programme (EP)
In March 2024 FOVS launched the Entrepreneur Programme designed to equip the Conservation Interns with practical business skills in the following disciplines:
Retail business management
Guided Walking Tours – day visitors
Guided Walking tours – school groups
One of the initiatives born from this programme is the running of a small tuckshop from the Flower House, where cold drinks, water, snacks, firewood and fire-lighters are sold. Through this hands-on experience, the Interns learn how to manage inventory, handle finances, and engage with visitors in a customer-centric relationship. The desired outcome of this programme is providing the confidence and skills necessary to pursue their own entrepreneurial ventures in the future.
