Waterberg a classroom of variety
Die Pos spoke to renowned conservationist, Clive Walker, for our monthly interview with a resident who builds bridges in his or her community.
Walker’s career highlights include establishing an environmental school at Lapalala Wilderness in the Waterberg in 1981 for children aged nine and upwards, regardless of their background or colour. Today he is the patron and some 110 000 children and teachers have attended the school since 1985. Children and students have come from across the world. He believes the Waterberg can claim to have one of the finest venues in the world educating young minds about the environment and more importantly love, tolerance, respect and gratitude.
Walker also founded the Endangered Wildlife Trust in 1973 to aid in the fight against rhino and elephant poaching and together with Dale Parker established the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve. He has also authored numerous books about conservation.
How have you contributed to your community in Vaalwater?
By having an open mind and respecting one and all irrespective where they come from. This builds trust.
Who did you meet that convinced you that action was necessary to build a community?
I met David Shepherd, a famous British artist, in 1973 and he inspired me to use my “art” to create funds and awareness for conservation, and Hanneke van der Merwe, the second Lapalala school director (for almost 15 years) during my tenure as director. She is a kind, devoted, passionate conservation teacher. A very fine, decent human being.
What issue in your community do you think needs to be addressed first?
We normally vote people into parliament to achieve these measures. However decent housing, clean water, safety and most importantly, good medical care. It is important to restore trust and dignity.
What do you think the future holds for smaller towns such as Vaalwater, Modimolle and Bela-Bela?
These three towns are the gateways to one of the country’s most important tourist areas, catering for an amazing cross section of outdoor activities. They are the engines that support the whole community, a source of service, goods and human potential. The services they provide over such a large area are essential to the functioning of this biosphere. Few areas exist outside of the Waterberg that enjoy no major power lines carving up the landscape, rail, industry or forestry and dare I say “clean air”.
Is there a specific non-profit or charitable institution that you support?
The Clive Walker Foundation is a registered charity which runs the Living Museum in Melkrivier.
If you were given R1 million to spend in your community, what would you use it for?
I would use it on health care, especially for young township girls. The chance of attending an outdoor day experience to our museum and to attend the Lapalala Wilderness School as a follow up for school going children in Vaalwater/Lesideng.
Is there a quote that inspires you?
“It’s not the destination where you end up, it’s the memories you share along the way.”
