HOEDSPRUIT – Hoedspruit-based non-profit organisation Nourish has been recognised for its contribution to community development and conservation after being named Charity of the Year at the Kruger Lowveld Chamber of Business and Tourism (KLCBT) Annual Awards.

The prestigious award, sponsored by Radio Laeveld, was presented on Friday, October 23, at the Emnotweni Arena in Mbombela.

Nourish was among seven finalists competing for the title, alongside organisations such as the Greater Rape Intervention Programme (GRIP) and Sinani.

The recognition highlights the organisation’s continued efforts to uplift communities living near wildlife reserves through education, nutrition, environmental awareness and skills development.

Nourish founder and CEO Sarah Bergs expressed her gratitude, describing the award as a special moment for the organisation and its dedicated team.

“Winning this award in our own Kruger to Canyon region is incredibly special,” said Bergs.

“But more than the recognition, it’s an opportunity to pause and acknowledge our incredible team and the work they do every single day.” She explained that the organisation’s demanding schedule often leaves little time to reflect on its achievements.

“We get so busy with training, taking children on wildlife field trips, educating, feeding and upskilling that we’re often focused on everything we still want to do. More children to reach, more trees to plant, more opportunities to create,” she said. “Sometimes we forget to look back and celebrate just how far we’ve come. This award is a lovely reminder to do exactly that, and to be proud of the people who make it all happen.”

Recognising community impact

Founded in 2011, Nourish has established itself as a community development and conservation organisation working to improve the lives of children and families in the Hoedspruit area.

Through its Eco Villages and community outreach initiatives, the organisation provides programmes focused on early childhood development, daily meals for children, environmental education and practical skills training.

Among its initiatives are the Green Kidz environmental education programme, computer literacy training and women’s empowerment projects aimed at equipping community members with skills to create sustainable livelihoods.

The organisation’s approach is guided by the belief that people and nature can thrive together, with community development playing an important role in long-term conservation efforts.

A shared achievement

Bergs emphasised that the achievement would not have been possible without the collective support of staff, volunteers, donors, businesses and community partners.

“None of this happens in isolation. From our staff and community members to the volunteers, donors, businesses and partners who support us, so many people have played a part in the Nourish journey. This recognition belongs to all of them,” she said.