Pride 'n Purpose is our charitable arm which focuses on sustainable initiatives that support disadvantaged communities living adjacent to the Sabi Sand Reserve.
With the help of many committed and generous volunteers and donors, David Khoza and Amanda Hattingh, Pride ‘n Purpose’s only full-time employees, have made a huge impact on 40,000 people’s lives, across 7 communities near Ulusaba. When they’re not flat out working you can find David getting stuck into a game of football and Amanda painting, or exploring new places around the world.
Why do you love your job?
David: Making a difference to the lives of people in the local communities is important and gives me a sense of purpose. I care about their development and well-being and it’s truly amazing to see the progress they’ve made over the 9 years that I’ve been with the team.
Amanda: I love that it’s tangible; we work directly with locals and support them and in turn future generations. There are so many good people who will change entire communities if they’re given the opportunity – and that’s where Pride ‘n Purpose comes in.
If a genie could grant you 3 ‘social impact’ wishes, what would they be?
David: My 3 wishes would fit with our key areas of work; 1) access to clean water for everyone 2) support for local entrepreneurs and 3) education at all levels.
Amanda: I would ask for a sustainable future for everyone in South Africa through 1) good health 2) financial stability 3) equal opportunities for children including a safe home and a quality education.
What is your favourite memory from your time at Pride ‘n Purpose?
David: A day that stands out for me was when everyone gathered at Mahlahluvana Primary School where we had just installed a Fun Pump. Suddenly there was a sense of excitement in the air as the clean water flowed out of the well, it had worked! Having clean water for the community has made such a difference.
Amanda: I have so many, so I’ll go with the most recent one! We ran a sewing training workshop at the Tshemba Hosi Centre for people with special needs, where Ulusaba bed sheets were repurposed into dressing gowns. The aim was to support them with generating an income and it was amazing to watch the students build in confidence with their new skill. A very generous donation from an Ulusaba guest meant the project became long-term and we built a proper facility for the workshop – so in between sewing I also picked up a thing or two about construction!
Why do so many guests want to volunteer with Pride ‘n Purpose when they visit?
David: When guests visit Ulusaba they see and hear first-hand about the meaningful impact Pride ‘n Purpose has on the community. Guests feel an emotional connection and want to be a part of it.
Amanda: I think guests love the volunteering experience because we keep things simple and authentic. They have the opportunity to get involved with the Shangaan way of life and connect with genuine people.
What feedback do you get after a Community Tour?
David: Guests are often blown away by the positive impact our projects have had and are eager to stay updated about what’s going on after they leave Ulusaba – so they’re always happy to find out about our newsletter which they can sign up to.
Amanda: We receive a variety of responses, but the most common one is that people are touched by what they’ve seen and experienced. They love meeting the locals and leave with memories that last a lifetime.
Find out more about Pride 'n Purpose at www.ulusaba.virgin.com or email email enquiries@virginlimitededition.co.za to book a stay.
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