Photography is more than just taking pictures — it’s a powerful way for people to explore who they are and how they see the world. That idea is at the heart of Ibali, a program designed to teach photography to young people in Cape Town’s under-resourced communities. We’re proud to support this initiative.

South Africa is a country full of potential, but many young people face daily challenges and have limited exposure to life beyond their immediate surroundings. Ibali — which means “story” in Xhosa — gives these youth the tools to see their world differently. By learning photography, they not only gain a creative outlet but also develop confidence, perspective, and a voice.

The program provides practical photography training, space for creative expression, and ongoing personal mentorship. Participants are encouraged to document their lives and speak out on the issues that matter in their communities. Their photos and stories spark conversations, raise awareness, and can even inspire real social change.

If you join us on one of our photography adventures, our partner in greening – Greenpop – will plant a tree for you – and you’ll get a certificate with the GPS coordinates of your tree, so that you’ll know exactly where it’s growing. This will help to compensate for your carbon footprint!

Greenpop is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reforestation, urban greening, and environmental education across Sub-Saharan Africa. They restore and protect ancient African forests by using a sustainable development approach. They also provide green spaces and food gardens in under-resourced urban areas, improving food security, creating opportunities for income generation and spreading environmental awareness in the process.

Since its foundation in 2010, Greenpop has planted over 250,000 trees, restored 150 acres of ancient forest, created dozens of food and fynbos gardens in underserved communities, and trained hundreds of people in food gardening.