For 28 days over the African Winter, twelve young men and women from Jordan, the USA, Canada and India came together for a “total immersion” experience in the African bushveld. Under the leadership of Kate Oschman and Fortunate Phaka - who are both Y4AW alumni -  the YNGer interns divided their time between Entabeni Safari Conservancy, the Makuleke Conservancy in the north of the Kruger National Park, and Balule Game Reserve which borders on the Kruger National Park.

While Debbie and Dex were off in the South African bushveld, Annie headed north to Namibia. Namibia is big on dramatic landscapes, uninterrupted views, and soaring temperatures. Her wide, open spaces lend themselves to restorative solitude and a contemplative mood.

Families with small children sometimes have concerns about whether or not safaris are child-friendly. While some lodges have age restrictions (for safety reasons), most safari lodges happily accommodate children. Having said that, not all lodges are ideally suited to families travelling with little ones. That’s why we love Samara.

Like many people across the globe, we’re totally excited about Netflix’s series, Our Planet. While we’ve watched many documentaries and nature programs in our time, Our Planet - a collaboration between Netflix, WWF, Silverback Films - is particularly beautiful and especially groundbreaking. Every frame is truly a visual feast.

National Geographic recently published an article about the incredible revival of Akagera National Park. Written by independent journalist and filmmaker Benedict Moran and penned in partnership with the Wyss Campaign for Nature, the article illustrates what is possible when there is a will to make things happen.