For the last 16 years, I’ve been part of the Flower Valley Conservation Trust team. But last week, for the first time, I addressed our Flower Valley Trustees and staff as Acting Executive Director. 

Yes, I was a little nervous at the thought (and grateful for the opportunity at the same time). But then this happened, which really changed everything for me. 
 
As I prepared for my presentation, I reflected on the workings of Flower Valley as a non-profit organisation over the last 16 years.

It was a truly inspiring moment. Here’s what I found:

• 80000 - Our total conservation footprint stretches over 80,000 hectares of natural Fynbos landscapes in the Cape Floral Kingdom. (Our indicators include cleared hectares of invasive species and verified hectares of good practices for wild fynbos harvesting.)
• 480 - This was made possible through the participation of 480 local people working as part of independent small enterprises. 
• 992 - And in our Early Childhood Development Programme, our home-based and centre-based work offers ECD support to local communities that in total reach 922 children and 60 practitioners.

These Stats really showed me something: First, we have focused programmes that are able to deliver on their objectives through a dedicated and hardworking team, who I’m fortunate to work with. Also, our partnerships are VITAL to our continued success.

And finally, now in our 20th year, we’re stronger and even more resilient. We, therefore, remain committed to our pursuit towards a Fynbos-filled future for life and livelihoods.