From 18-21February, a number of familiar faces from our Wilderness family arrived in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, where all our regions were represented during two power days at our 2024 Impact workshop.

The last comparable event took place eight years ago, underlining the significance of this event.

Gathering an impressive 32 staff, it was great to have all regions present, and so many MDs and operational heads together in one space. No mean feat with busy lodges and packed diaries.

Hosted at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, the two days were divided into presentation segments that covered all regions in a group impact overview aimed at aligning achievements, challenges and future plans for positive change across our three core Impact pillars of Educate, Empower and Protect. The second day hosted two separate sessions, one covering all things CITW and the other, EMS (Environmental Management Standards).

The two-day agenda delved into substantial discussions, with each region seizing the opportunity to showcase their impressive efforts. Key topics included Co-developing Projects & Project Monitoring, Fundraising, Good Governance, Impact Messaging by the Sector and Theory of Action: Communicating Results, and Impact in the Consumer Marketing World. The agenda was rich with invaluable insights, offering room for probing questions and fostering healthy debate.

The workshop wasn’t all business though, and in true Wilderness style, the group made the most of the setting and any chance to get outdoors and into nature. A tour of the majestic Victoria Falls kicked things off, planned for those who arrived early on Sunday – a first-time Mosi-oa-Tunya experience for many (and we’ve got the drenched selfies to prove it – with the renowned showers being a welcome fix for the 34-degree temperature highs).

Post 5pm activities included a braai and sundowner session at the famed Boat Club on the first evening, and the trip ended with the ultimate itinerary highlight of a sunset boat cruise.

Vince Shacks, Group Impact Manager, expressed his gratitude, acknowledging everybody’s hard work propelling various projects forward. “As we wrap up our Impact Workshop, I’m confident in saying that everyone departs, not just inspired, but armed with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity for the road ahead. The purpose of our work’s longevity, and the long-lasting mark it leaves on our environment, wildlife, future generations and all stakeholders involved, is evident. A big thank you to the CITW Zambezi team, our own Impact team, Staff Travel, and everyone involved for crafting an unforgettable workshop”.

Derek de la Harpe, Head of Risk & Corporate Affairs, closed the event with an apt sunset toast on the cruise, saying, “The connections forged, both within the conference room and in nature, proved invaluable, and the success of our projects is a testament to the collaborative spirit in this room. Let’s continue impacting positive change together”.

Report by Josie Eveleigh, Wilderness Communications Copywriter

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