Data Loading...

25th Anniversary Trips

193 Views
46 Downloads
94.38 MB

Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Copy link

DOWNLOAD PDF

REPORT DMCA

RECOMMEND FLIP-BOOKS

25th anniversary – WE Villages

AIDS were overwhelming in our partner communities. In less than a generation, these diseases have be

Read online »

25th Anniversary Kenya

shorten your stay, please ask for more details. 22 23 Don’t worry about the details, our team is on

Read online »

25th Anniversary Ecuador

exclusions are listed after the itinerary with costing. Accommodation in Quito may change subject to

Read online »

25th anniversary—WE Villages

AIDS were overwhelming in our partner communities. In less than a generation, these diseases have be

Read online »

25th anniversary—WE Well-Being

Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Univerity of Toronto David Kreindler, MD, FRCPC Head,

Read online »

25th anniversary—WE Well-Being

Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Univerity of Toronto David Kreindler, MD, FRCPC Head,

Read online »

25th Anniversary - Case for Support - Final

25th Anniversary - Case for Support - Final P a g e | 1 OVERVIEW In 1995, brothers Craig and Marc Ki

Read online »

The Sonic the Hedgehog 25th Anniversary Collection

PAUL KENTON STILL UNSTOPPABLE THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY PORTFOLIO Unframed Giclée on Paper | 10¾ x 15¾” (

Read online »

Lonoke PT. Celebrating Our 25th Anniversary!

CEO of both locations, as well as a treating staff member. He obtained his Master of Science in Phys

Read online »

ME to WE, Safari & Celebration: Kenya 25th Anniversary Trip

exclusions are listed after the itinerary with costing. Accommodation in Nairobi may change subject

Read online »

25th Anniversary Trips

TRIPS

BY INVITATION ONLY:

WE’s 25th Anniversary Celebration

Join us to celebrate 25 years of making an impact.

WE.ORG/TRIPS | [email protected] | 1.647.961.2784

Table of contents

4 Hello 6 Timeline of WE 8 Ecuador itinerary 16 Minga lodge 18 Customize your trip 20 Kenya Itinerary

26 Bogani lodge 30 customize your trip 34 Health and safety 36 FAQ 38Our signature service

Village Savings and Loans Association See the positive difference that this project is making in the lives of community members, empowering them with the opportunity and financial literacy to invest in their futures, from the students themselves as they share their dreams and plans for the future.

Connect at the Women’s Empowerment Center Meet remarkable women at the new Women’s Empowerment Center, a supportive space for them to realize their potential and make their dreams a reality.

Visit the new Kisaruni Boys’ School Ngulot Campus

Visit the Agricultural Learning Centre Tour our newest project in the Amazon region, the WE Agricultural Learning Centre. This stunning, expansive space supports local farmers as they learn new sustainable farming skills and build confidence in their work.

Welcoming its first class of students in January 2017, the Nuglot Boys’ Campus is supporting its learners in becoming leaders of their communities. Hear from the students themselves as they share their dreams and plans for the future.

2

3

Hello!

Dear friends,

This is our 25th anniversary of making doing good doable at WE and to celebrate, we’re honored to warmly invite you on a once-in-a-lifetime trip! This extraordinary experience is by invitation only, just for our closest friends to share in this historic moment. For the past 25 years it’s been an incredible journey in helping to make a meaningful impact in the world, and we’re excited to welcome the next chapter of our story—with you! Whether you’ve traveled with us before or have yet to join us, this is one trip you can’t miss. Unique, unforgettable and truly unsurpassable, we’ll take you into the heart of transformation in the making as we show you all of our finished development projects and ones in the works. From a visit to our newWE College to being invited into the homestead of a local mama in Kenya. Or visiting our WE Agricultural Learning Centre to learning about the origins of ME to WE chocolate and coffee in Ecuador, exciting new adventures are in store for you.

Meet new friends or catch up with old ones. Dive into culture as you hear from leaders discussing the impact of sustainable development in their homes. See firsthand the incredible change that has happened over the years as a result of our projects. When you embark on this journey, you’ll have the fantastic opportunity to connect with locals and bond with our global WE family of friends, supporters and partners. Join us in Kenya or Ecuador to celebrate this pivotal milestone as we commemorate our past —and look ahead to the future. We can’t wait to see you there!

Craig Kielburger, Marc Kielburger and Roxanne Joyal

4

5

25 Years of WE

Ecuador

It’s been an extraordinary 25 years of doing good at WE, from witnessing our first minga —the Kichwa word meaning “people coming together for the greater good”—that inspired ME to WE to building our first school in Chimborazo. The gracious contributions and support of our global community make what we do possible and we’re so grateful to everyone who has been a part of the movement. Now, it’s time to celebrate the close of one chapter of our journey and welcome another exciting one. And we’re doing it in style!

Kenya

Celebrate our 25th anniversary with us on a special trip! Unbelievable surprises, new activities, delightful wonders and so much more await you on this incomparable experience.

You’ll have the heartwarming opportunity to connect with the local mamas at the newWomen’s Empowerment Center, the WE College students who started with us at our primary and secondary schools, and the community members we partner with every day. Unlike any of our offerings, or anything you’ll find elsewhere, this trip invites you to the heart of culture in Kenya and takes you on an unforgettable adventure. From looking back on the past amazing 25 years at WE to kicking off another marvelous 25 years with us, you’re in for a treat!

1995

1998

2000

2004

2007

2011

2017

Today

We’re continuing our domestic and international programing, including partneringwith communities inKenya, India and Ecuador to help increase access to education, water, health care, food and income opportunities. With 25 years of doing good, WE looks forward to another 25 of making doing good doable.

At home in Toronto, WE opened the WE Global Learning Center, our do-good headquarters, and WE Charity opened WE College, the only postsecondary institution in Kenya that provides full scholarships.

Big changes came to the Maasai Mara. Not only did WE Charity open Kisaruni Secondary School to educate and empower girls graduating from primary school, but they also opened the Baraka Health Clinic to provide health care, which has now become a leading hospital in the region.

New initiatives begin at WE. Our first everWEDay in Toronto inspired 8,000 students and began the work of empowering a generation of change-makers. Inspired by the traditional crafts made by women inKenya and Ecuador, Roxanne Joyal foundedME toWEArtisans to help those women earn a sustainable income.

WE Villages, our holistic sustainable development model that partners with global communities, is launched. This program tackles the primary causes of poverty—education, water, health, food and opportunity—through its five Pillars of Impact.

We hosted our first volunteer trip to Kenya. Since then thousands of guests, including youth, school groups, families and corporate groups, have visited developing countries around the world.

We built our first schools in the mountainous region of Waslala in northern Nicaragua, and in West Bengal, India. The next year, we broke ground on schools in Kenya, and the year after that, in Ecuador.

After learning of Iqbal Masih, a former child worker who was murdered for speaking out against child labor, 12 year-old Craig Kielburger, and his 11 classmates founded WE Charity (formerly known as Free The Children).

6

7

Why we work in Ecuador

POPULATION 16.9 Million

CURRENCY US dollar ($)

TIME Central Time (GMT/UTC minus 5 hours)

LANGUAGE Spanish & Kichwa

The province of Chimborazo in central Ecuador, as well as the Amazon region, are home to large numbers of indigenous communities who suffer from some of the highest rates of poverty in the country.

• The average length of schooling for the indigenous population is just 3.3 years.

• Due to the unavailability of secondary schools and remoteness of communities, nine out of 10 children in rural regions do not continue their education past the primary level. • Thirty-five percent of the Ecuadorian population live below the income poverty line. • Almost 8 percent of children ages five to 14 are engaged in child labor. • Illiteracy continues to affect almost a third of the indigenous population. Our work in Ecuador In Chimborazo and Napo provinces, we work alongside the local communities to implement WE Villages programming that includes:

Ecuador

WATER 3 water systems established

FOOD 4

pilot gardens implemented, with three kitchens and dining halls currently being rehabilitated

EDUCATION 1,000+ students we have helped support

Ecuador

OPPORTUNITY 8000

In the lush Amazon, witness the sights and sounds of the biggest rainforest in the world. With a ME to WE trip to Ecuador, you will explore your surroundings, not as tourists, but as part of the community who have lived in the jungle for generations.

community members impacted through the Women’s Empowerment Center, serving as a training space for artisans.

HEALTH 200+ people have been provided with medical care.

8

9

Ecuador: 25th Anniversary Trip

Trip dates: December 27, 2019 – January 2, 2020 July 25 – 31, 2020 July 30 – August 5, 2020 December 27, 2020 – January 2, 2021 Day 1

Day 2 Fuel up with a delicious breakfast Get ready for the journey ahead by indulging in Wyndham Hotel’s breakfast buffet with both western favorites and traditional South American cuisine. Deep dive into the Amazon Basin You won’t believe your eyes when you descend into the rich, lush sea of emerald green of the Amazon Basin. Covering approximately 40 percent of the South American continent, don’t get lost in this wild, beautiful forest. Zip up the Rio Napo, an Amazon River tributary situated in one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, on an unforgettable outboard motor canoe ride. Feel the cool breeze on your face and watch the vibrantly colored birds fly above as your driver and cultural expert gives you an insider’s view of Amazon River culture. Hop aboard a picture-worthy jungle cruise river expedition

Depart from North America Arrive in Quito to kick-start your exclusive adventure Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Collect your luggage and make your way through customs to the arrivals area of Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport, where a ME to WE representative will be waiting to greet you. Relax and enjoy a short ride to your hotel. Relax at the Wyndam Hotel before your jam-packed week When you arrive at the western-style hotel, you’ll be greeted by the sweet smell of fresh roses, one of the region’s top floral exports. Get a good first night’s rest before your descent into the Amazon rainforest.

Arrive at Minga Lodge Alli shamushca capay —welcome! A breathtaking sight you won’t see anywhere else in the world, drink in the spectacular Amazonian sunset over the Rio Napo as you step off the boat at Minga Lodge. Your lush tropical surroundings will be glowing pink and orange as you snack on local treats like plantain chips and yucca fritters, washed down with a glass of chilled guayusa tea. Welcome to your home-away-from-home An exquisite and peaceful oasis, Minga Lodge is tucked into the jungle overlooking the river. Discover winding trails and paths as you explore your cottage nestled deep in the rainforest. Walk through WE’s history and kick-off the next chapter! As you make yourself at home, learn more about the impact we’ve made together as we look back at the incredible past 25 years at WE and look toward the next chapter in our story. Let’s celebrate the change we’ve created together fromwhen we first started building schools in 1999 to today, as we implement our full WE Villages sustainable development program. Together, we can step forward into a transformative future. Welcome dinner Let the aromas of cumin, oregano, garlic and onion be your guides as you make your way back to the dining hall from your cabin, along meandering stone pathways and over a footbridge across the creek. Feast on western favorites and local delicacies like heart of palm, stinging nettle and fish cooked in palm leaves. Add some fire to the meal with a scoop of aji hot sauce, if you dare!

Kichwa 101 Connect with your new friends in the community on a deeper level by learning a little Kichwa. From challenging your senses with blindfolded taste tests to practicing with a fellow traveler, this interactive session will get you speaking the local language in no time!

10

11

Day 3

Community orientation and volunteering Your momentous trip is just beginning! After breakfast, go for a short jungle walk or canoe ride to a nearby community. You’ll help with aWE Charity development project and connect with the wonderful people we partner with. Gain insight into the community mindset of the Kichwa people as you listen to the inspiring story of howCraig andMarc Kielburger witnessed a spontaneous and powerful community movement—a minga , which means “the coming together of people for the greater good” in Kichwa—years ago that inspired the formation of ME toWE, and the naming of Minga Lodge. Lunch Back at the lodge, sit down with new friends on the indoor-outdoor dining terrace and get excited for the new, immersive and unforgettable activities we have planned for you! hands-on workshop to learn the secrets of making delectable Ecuadorian chocolate from scratch? Meet a local cacao farmer who supplies beans to a French chocolatier and get creative by making your own concoction with flavors like lemongrass and banana. Cacao production is one of the main sources of income for the region’s farmers and we’re privileged to partner with them for the years to come. A sweet trip to the cacao farm When will you ever have the chance to join a

Day 4

A rainforest excursion beyond compare Here’s your one-and-only chance to drink fresh water straight from a jungle vine! Hike deep into primary and secondary rainforests to discover a myriad of flora and fauna, including seven species of toucan, long- tailed Potoos, gargantuan cebo trees and countless species of insects, spiders and snakes. Lunch Freshen up with a cool face towel at the lodge and refuel for the afternoon with a freshly prepared lunch and energizing glass of chilled guayusa tea. An authentic day-in-the-life of a local For the past 25 years, we’ve partnered with the extraordinary local people and what better way to honor our time together than by seeing Ecuador through their eyes, an experience you can only discover with ME to WE. Walk a mile in their shoes and roll up your sleeves to help a local farmer carry out some of their daily activities such as planting seeds, fetching water from the river and harvesting crops. Kichwa in the kitchen Take home a mouth-watering and lifelong souvenir you won’t find anywhere else—traditional Kichwa cooking lessons! Join our indigenous Kichwa chefs for a cooking workshop and transform exotic local ingredients you won’t find at home into delicious traditional dishes like fish wrapped in palm leaves. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for dinner!

Dinner Gather around the dinner table for a family-style feast and some down time with the group. Try your feet at traditional Ecuadorian dance Leap feet first into an authentic night of Ecuadorian dance performed by local community members. Join in on the fun and create lasting memories! Now spanning over 170 acres, the WE Agricultural Learning Center is a space for farmers to acquire new and improved techniques, gain confidence in their skills and succeed in their work. See firsthand the positive impact the center has on the lives of local farmers and their families, and learn about their sustainable farming practices tailored to the Amazon. Plus, check out the origins of the cacao we use in our delicious ME to WE chocolate! Visit one of our newest projects, the WE Agricultural Learning Center

Dinner Share stories and photos with friends over a stunning sunset dinner perched above the Rio Napo. Tune in to your senses and enjoy the warm breeze on your skin, the richness of spices in your mouth, and the emerging sounds of jungle fauna all around.

The Amazonian night hike beyond your wildest dreams!

After sunset, it’s time for the ultimate adventure. Grab your flashlights and set out on a mind-boggling night hike with an experienced local guide. Get up close and personal with curious critters like frogs, spiders, tree snakes, cayman and owls. But with tens of thousands of species in the Amazon Basin, who knows what friendly creatures might come say hello!

13

12

Day 7

Depart for Quito Say goodbye to the steamy Amazon and its amazing people and way of life, as we drive to higher ground back to the city of Quito. Visit historic Quito Top off your memorable week by exploring Old Quito, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a walking tour of the area. Find yourself lost in the enchanting stories of Old Quito’s rich culture and history as you take in the stunning 17th and 18th century Spanish colonial architecture. Often referred to as Latin America’s best tourist destination, Ecuador’s capital city boasts countless beautiful old churches, striking architecture and winding cobblestone streets with mountains and hills surrounding the downtown proper. Farewell dinner at Plaza Grande While in Quito’s historic center, there is no missing the famous Plaza Grande. With its many notable buildings, including the official presidential palace and statue commemorating independence, this plaza is one of Quito’s points of pride. The restaurant is dedicated to the pleasures of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, offering selections from every region of the country, accompanied by traditional music. Enjoy the meal while you reflect on a week full of authentic and exciting experiences. Relax for the night at a nearby hotel in Quito before your departure. International departure Your driver will pick you up from dinner and drive you straight to the airport for your flight back home, or on to your next adventure! OR Begin your customized extension

Day 5 Optional early morning bird watching

Day 6 Braided & beaded: Alternative income initiatives in the Amazon Find yourself in the center of culture, community and connection as you meet a dynamic group of skilled female artisans and learn how they are earning a sustainable income through traditional jewelry making. Marvel at their stunning craftsmanship and the exquisite accessories they create with many pieces made from nuts and seeds collected in the rainforest. From sourcing to production, every step toward creating uniquely Ecuadorian red, black and white jewelry pieces is local, and the women also produce modern loom beaded bracelets and items featuring traditional South American motifs. Shaman ceremony and weapons training There is no better way to jump headfirst into a community’s way of life than by taking part in decades-old traditions alongside them. Be invited into the home of a local shaman, high above the river, for a truly immersive experience: a traditional cleansing ceremony and blessing. Next, try your hand at spear- throwing and shooting a blowgun as you follow the footsteps of an indigenous weapons expert.

Just for early risers, enjoy a tranquil start to the day with bird watching. Travel to our 300 hectare forest reserve and look to the trees, where it’s not unusual to spot more than 30 species of birds in one hour, including local celebrity species like Whitehawk and Blackhawk eagles. Building in a local community Kick-start the next chapter of our WE story in the best possible way—connecting with the locals over a development project! After breakfast, join your group and a ME to WE teammember to help in a WE Villages development project. Witness the extraordinary progress of these projects and how you’re helping to make an impact. Lunch Reconvene with the group back at the lodge for lunch and a bit of down time before carrying on with the remainder of your day. Kick your feet up for a quick afternoon siesta in your hammock or join friends for a game of cards in the shade.

We’ve planned a ton of extra- special events and activities with our co-founders on this thrilling 25th anniversary trip. Enjoy this awe-inspiring adventure to usher in the next 25 years of our journey together! Just for our honored guests, countless surprises are in store for you!

Celebrate our 25th anniversary under the Amazon sky!

Farewell celebration Celebrate your week of new experiences and

Our 25th anniversary soirée will go down in history! Jam-packed with inspirational fun, wonderful thrills, unforgettable surprises and so much more, the party of the century awaits you. Unforgettable surprises await you as we celebrate our 25th anniversary and welcome the new year and next chapter of our do-good story.

meaningful contributions to community development projects alongside friends and teammembers with one final family-style feast. Reflect on the outstanding unfolding of sustainability and empowerment of the community you visited, and look ahead to even more incredible change to come!

Please note that this itinerary is subject to change. Details of specific trip inclusions/exclusions are listed after the itinerary with costing. Accommodation in Quito may change subject to availability.

14

15

EXPLORE ECUADOR

Minga Lodge

• Self-contained cabin-style accommodations with organic flair, suitable for individuals and families alike. • Inspired common spaces that include an al fresco dining platform overlooking the Rio Napo, offering spectacular sunset views. • Modern conveniences including hot water, power and en suite washrooms. • Enjoy family-style meals prepared fresh daily by expert chefs, including western favourites and Ecuadorian specialties. • We have a 15-year record of travel safety for our guests.

A tropical hideaway designed with its environment in mind, the picturesque Minga Lodge is located on the edge of the Rio Napo. After a day of volunteering in indigenous Kichwa communities, Minga Lodge offers serene and comfortable spaces to refresh and recharge.

16

17

Otovalo and Cotopaxi From Quito, drive overland to the regions of Otovalo and Cotopaxi. Both offer a unique glimpse into Ecuadorian life—from vast, open-air markets, to snow-capped mountains in the highlands. Recharge and refresh at traditional and welcoming haciendas, set high in the Andean mountain range. Embark on optional daily hikes and excursions provided by our partner haciendas, leading you to breathtaking vistas, trickling waterfalls and tranquil villages.

FROM $900 USD PP Based on double occupancy

Includes two nights full board accommodation and all land transfers. Optional activities extra.

Galapagos Islands

FROM $3,000 USD PP Based on double occupancy

Embark on a breathtaking adventure, bringing you face to-face with the vast biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. Be expertly guided through the flora and fauna of this famous archipelago on an unforgettable journey. Located 1,000 km from the Ecuadorian mainland, enjoy a remote paradise made famous by Charles Darwin and mingle with the vast array of natural wonders—on land or by sea! No matter which option you choose, we are happy to create the perfect adventure for you and your family. Book early to secure your spot—Galapagos trips sell out very quickly.

Price subject to availability and occupancy. Land and sea-based options available. Includes three nights full board accommodation, domestic flights and all land transfers. Optional activities extra.

Machu Picchu and beyond Start your journey in Peru’s bustling, coastal capital of Lima, before traveling to the ancient city of Cusco. Spend a day wandering the cobblestone streets, exploring Inca ruins and admiring beautiful Spanish architecture, all with the backdrop of the cloud-topped Andes mountains. Then, begin your journey to Machu Picchu itself, traveling through the Sacred Valley aboard a glass-topped Vistadome train. Along the way, take in stunning views of Peruvian villages nestled beside lush forests and rushing rivers. Your final ascent to Machu Picchu begins the next day!

FROM $3,000 USD PP Based on double occupancy

Price subject to availability and occupancy. Includes international flight from Quito to Lima, domestic return flight from Cusco to Lima, all land transfers and four nights full board accommodation.

18

19

Why we work in Kenya

POPULATION 47.7 million

CURRENCY Kenyan shilling (KSh)

TIME East Africa Time (GMT/UTC plus three hours)

LANGUAGE English, Swahili, other tribal languages

Kenya is a beautiful country with booming tourism and, in some places, great wealth. However, there are areas that also experience great poverty. • More than 75 percent of Kenya’s population live in rural areas. • Only 54 percent of those in rural areas have access to improved water sources. • The literacy rate in Kenya is 78 percent and the average for school attendance is six years. • Twenty-six percent of children aged five to 14 are engaged in child labor. • One out of five children suffer from malnutrition and 35 percent of children are affected by stunting.

Kenya

Our work in Kenya Working alongside Maasai and Kipsigis communities, we’re implementing WE Charity’s five-pillar sustainable development model, WE Villages, with projects including:

OPPORTUNITY 125+ women’s, men’s and youth groups have been established, and over 1,400 artisans supported by WE.

EDUCATION 11,500+

Kenya

students who we have helped support from elementary school through to high school. WE is now building a WE College to help continue their academic careers.

HEALTH 36

mobile clinics held each year in the most remote communities.

Kenya offers travelers a beautiful landscape, an array of wonderous wildlife and a cultural experience like no other. On a ME to WE Trip, we’ll also take you and your team beyond the safari and onto the beaten path—the one that’s not walked by tourists, but by the people who call this beautiful country home.

WATER 14 boreholes—half of which are solar —that are currently serving 15 communities, with four more boreholes planned for 2018.

FOOD 10

demonstration gardens that have been implemented in schools, along with three community farms in Sikirar, Pimbiniet and Kipsongol.

20

21

Kenya: 25th Anniversary Trip

Trip dates: December 27, 2019 – January 2, 2020 July 5 – 11, 2020 July 10 – 16, 2020 August 3 – 9, 2020 December 27, 2020 – January 2, 2021 Day 1

Day 2

Breakfast After a good night’s rest, enjoy a delicious, full breakfast at The Sheraton to start off your one-of-a-kind trip! Fly from Nairobi to the Maasai Mara FromWilson Airport in Nairobi, take a short flight that will descend into the Great Rift Valley. As you fly over the Maasai Mara, watch for circular shapes that characterize Maasai bomas (traditional houses), and look for herds of local wildlife and cattle.

Evening arrival in Nairobi Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Collect your luggage and proceed through customs, where you will be welcomed by your in-country facilitator in the arrivals hall. Enjoy a comfortable ride to your boutique hotel. Check-in to The Sheraton, Nairobi The Sheraton, Nairobi, offers a comfortable and exquisite place to settle in and relax. Enjoy the peace of fresh, spacious rooms in a city renowned for its vibrant culture. Rest for the evening and night to start your ME to WE adventure the next day. Evening snack and dinner are out-of-pocket tonight.

Welcome to your home-away-from-home Walk Bogani’s winding paths under yellow acacia groves, and get acquainted with the camp, learning some Swahili along the way. Enjoy lunch on the veranda overlooking the savanna. Walk through WE’s history and kick-off the next chapter As you make yourself comfortable, we’ll take you through the past 25 amazing years of doing good at WE to kick-off our exclusive anniversary trip. From building our first schools in Kenya to opening WE College, celebrate the incredible change we’ve been honored to help make with these communities. Together, we can step forward into a transformative future. Connect with the Kisaruni Learners You’ll have the wonderful opportunity to go on a guided tour of Kisaruni Girls Secondary School at Milimani Campus, WE Charity’s first all-girls secondary school, and bond with the students! Kisaruni focuses on community and provides empowering curriculum, giving their students the skills and opportunities to excel. Kisaruni strives to build on cultural values, promote leadership, value diversity and encourage active learning.

Arrive at Bogani Cottages and Tented Camp Settle into your new lodgings at

Bogani Cottages and Tented Camp. The bespoke cottages and tents are a serene place to relax and reflect. Each accommodation is complete with hot and cold running water, flush toilets and comfortable beds, and is furnished with unique African fabrics and art.

22

23

Day 4 Beading at the Women’s Empowerment Center Create lasting friendships and connections with the extraordinary mamas while spending the afternoon beading with them at the Women’s Empowerment Center. Learn about these artisans and how their work is empowering them to earn a sustainable livelihood under the Opportunity Pillar of the WE Villages model. School-building A hands-on opportunity that’s second to none. Not only will you have the unique chance to create a positive impact in the community you visit, but you’ll also forge new friendships alongside the locals. An immersive, unparalleled experience where you’ll sit side by side with the strong-willed women of the Village Saving and Loaning Association (VSLA). Sit in on a meeting and learn how they are empowered through this project to pursue their dreams and invest in their futures. Every month, members contribute to the group savings which allows them to take out low- interest loans. The interest goes back into the VSLA, allowing more loans to be given out to help members. Visit the mamas of the Village Saving and Loaning Association

Day 5

ME to WE Duka at Bogani Visit the Duka, our on-site shop, which offers locally sourced gifts, exclusive Kenyan products and ME to WE Artisans beaded accessories, as well as homewares made by local Maasai women. Take home inimitable, standout souvenirs to remind you of your once-in-a- lifetime trip! School-building Roll up your sleeves and grab some tools to work alongside Maasai and Kipsigis community members as you help to build a classroom or other school building. Tour the new WE College We’re proud to welcome you to one of our many exciting new projects in Kenya, the WE College! When you walk around the campus, which is constantly expanding to introduce new programs, you may recognize some familiar faces. That’s because you may have met them as young students at our primary and secondary schools! Now, they’re taking the next step in their academic careers and can’t wait to share with you their stories and ideas. Celebrate our 25th anniversary in the heart of the Maasai Mara Our 25th anniversary soirée will go down in history! Jam-packed with inspirational fun, wonderful thrills, unforgettable surprises and so much more, the party of the century awaits you.

Day 3

Homestead visit with a local mama A unique, authentic cultural experience you won’t find elsewhere. Take a deep dive into the habits of a healthy home—be invited to a local mama’s homestead to see how these simple steps have changed their lives and supported sustainable development. Lunch with the locals Sit down and enjoy a special lunch with the remarkable community members you’ve just met! Visit the new Kisaruni Boys’ School Ngulot Campus Sit and chat with the young men of the Ngulot Boys’ Campus about the equal opportunities and quality education they are able to access because of the new school. From engaging discussions on what they’re learning in class to hearing their aspirations for the future ahead, you are sure to be inspired by them!

Visit Baraka Hospital and Medicinal Garden Witness the inspiring progress of one of our WE Villages projects, Baraka Hospital, which first began as a health clinic in 2010 and has now grown into a full- fledged hospital with a newly opened surgical wing. Serving over 30,000 community members, the hospital promotes healthy living and provides preventative, curative and rehabilitative services to the most vulnerable segments of the Kenyan population. Hear about the wonderful stories over the past 10 years, thanks to this project. Next, take a walk through the shamba (garden) to learn about medicinal plants such as moringa, aloe vera, thyme, spider plant and more. This shamba also supplements the lunch program in WE Villages schools, helping to decrease malnutrition in the communities.

24

25

Day 7

Day 6

Depart Bogani for Wilson Airport Fly back to Nairobi over the Maasai Mara, landing at Wilson Airport in Nairobi. Check-in to the Radisson Blu, Nairobi The Radisson Blu Hotel, Nairobi, offers a sophisticated retreat in Upper Hill, the central business district within this commercial center of East Africa. Stay for an afternoon of relaxation as you prepare for your international flight home.

School-building Spend your morning finishing up your volunteer project and say goodbye to the new friends that you’ve made. Medicine walk and Maasai warrior training An immersive, unprecedented experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime— embark on a leisurely hike to learn about medicinal herbs from a local Maasai warrior and master the art of Maasai weaponry. Afterwards, enjoy a hot cup of chai or a glass of wine on the hillside, overlooking the beautiful region. Say Kwaheri to the community Wish your new friends in the community farewell and debrief on your Immersive Volunteer Trip and community experience with your facilitators. Chow down on a traditional Nyama Choma dinner A traditional Nyama Choma dinner, Kenya’s barbecue, is a mouth-watering delight you will want to savor. As you indulge in this rich and heavenly feast, kick back and reflect on your past week filled with cherished memories and experiences.

Drive to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your flight home Kwaherinina safari jemma! OR Begin your customized extension

We’ve planned a ton of extra-special events and activities with our co-founders on this thrilling 25th anniversary trip. Enjoy this awe-inspiring adventure to usher in the next 25 years of our journey together! Just for our honored guests, countless surprises are in store for you!

Please note that this itinerary is subject to change. Details of specific trip inclusions/exclusions are listed after the itinerary with costing. Accommodation in Nairobi may change subject to availability.

26

27

Bogani Cottages

A property designed with authentic African décor set in the heart of the Maasai Mara, Bogani Cottages and Tented Camp offers relaxing spaces to recharge and refresh after a day of volunteering.

• All accommodations offer modern conveniences including hot water, power and en suite washrooms. • Enjoy family style meals prepared fresh daily by expert chefs on our al fresco dining platform. • We have a 17-year record of travel safety for our guests.

360 Bogan i Tour

After a full day of exploring, retreat to your home away from home. Cottages offer a variety of Mara-inspired spaces, including fireplaces, bedrooms, and gathering spaces for you and your family to recharge and refresh.

28

29

Bogani Tented Camp

31

28

FROM $3,395 USD PP Based on double occupancy

Safari extension

Little Governors’ Camp Little Governors’ Camp is a luxury safari camp located on the edge of the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The camp is approached by a boat ride across the Mara River, then an escorted walk through the riverine forest. Vehicles are left on the far river bank, and the camp is therefore quiet and undisturbed. Guests may need to make way for elephants, which sometimes visit the camp at lunchtime.

Transfer to/from safari property • Three nights full board accommodation • Twice daily game drives (six game drives) • All meals • Conservation fees Optional upgrades • Exclusive use of vehicle • Scenic flights • Hot air balloon safari • Lengthen or shorten stay • Private guide

Includes transfer from Bogani. laundry service. Excludes optional activities as well as alcoholic beverages. www.littlegovernors.com

Richard’s River Camp Designed with privacy, exclusivity and adventure in mind, Richard’s River Camp is located on the banks of the Njageteck River and surrounded by 70 acres of private land in the Olare Orok Conservancy. The camp allows for total privacy and exclusivity with only seven tents. The Ngoyanai springs provide permanent water, drawing in large numbers of animals to the area around camp.

FROM $3,595 USD PP Based on double occupancy

If you’d like to extend/shorten your stay, please ask for more details.

Includes alcoholic beverages, guided bush walks and cultural visits, sundowners, laundry services and transfer from Bogani.

Excludes champagne, premium spirits and cellar wines. www.richardscamp.com

Angama Mara Welcome to Angama Mara, a remarkable owner-run safari lodge inspired by the Swahili word for “suspended in mid-air.” Located high above the floor of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, Angama Mara overlooks Kenya’s Maasai Mara, considered by many as the loveliest game reserve on the continent. Here guests will find a lodge where everything is as it ought to be: two intimate camps of just 15 tented suites each, a private airfield and access to the Mara below, tailor-made safari days and a famously warm Kenyan welcome. Includes alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, beers, house wines, and selected house spirits, laundry, childminding (6-10 p.m.). Excludes champagne, premium spirits and cellar wines. www.angama.com

FROM $5,595 USD PP Based on double occupancy

32

33

Inclusions • Accommodation at Toriana extension

Day 1 Depart for Kilifi from the Maasai Mara Fly froman airstrip near Bogani andmake your way to the beautiful Kenyan coast. Check-in to Toriana Graceful arches and authentic detailing welcome you home to Toriana after a short drive from the Vipingo Airstrip. Discover Swahili culture and history from the comfort of our coastal beach house. Situated on four waterfront acres near Kilifi, we encourage you to enjoy fresh meals served on the vast terraces, inspiring Swahili and Moroccan architecture, and the white sand and blue waters of Bofa Beach footsteps away. Sunset stroll Walk along the beach to take in the breeze and experience a sunset over the Indian Ocean. Beach-side welcome Warm yourself by our beachside firepit under the stars as you enjoy a complimentary drink. Day 2 Recharge or discovery day Continue to relax by the pool, explore the coastline and indulge in the serenity of Toriana. Or, if you are craving some more action, take a look at some of our optional activities and discover all that coastal Kenya has to offer, from scuba diving to golfing nearby. Relax and recharge As the local people say, “There’s no rush while you’re in paradise.” Reward yourself after a week of volunteering and spend the afternoon unwinding on a breezy lanai terrace or exploring the beach. Day 3 Yoga beats Take some time to treat your body and mind with a private yoga class. Whether it’s early morning by the beach or on the rooftop patio at sunset, our instructor will lead you through a fun and casual session to invigorate your body! From beginner to advanced, all levels are welcome. Dhow boat excursion The best way to experience Kenya’s beautiful coast is from the deck of a dhow boat. These traditional sailing vessels have been used for hundreds of years to transport goods up and down the coast, and on your excursion they will grant you access to a unique view of the coast and the beautiful wildlife that surrounds you. Farewell dinner Spend your last night of the trip watching the sun set over the ocean.

FROM $1,895 USD PP Based on double occupancy

Toriana Beach House (three nights) • Domestic airfare (Mara to the coast & back to Nairobi) • All activities as identified in the itinerary • All meals Exclusions • Optional activities while at Toriana • Beverages at Toriana • Gratuities are not expected but appreciated, and are shared among all staff. We humbly suggest $10-15 per adult per day

If you’d like to extend/shorten your stay, please ask for more details.

34

35

Frequently asked questions

Q: Can I bring a laptop, iPod, expensive camera etc.? A: We suggest traveling as lightly as possible to minimize the risk of damage to or loss of your possessions. For essential items, our lodges have a safe in every room. Q: Will I have access to phone and internet? A: Both phone and email communication are easily accessible in Nairobi and Quito. Cell phone service is intermittently available while you are staying at our lodges. If you would like to have access to the Internet while staying with us, we suggest getting in touch with your network provider to purchase a >Page 1 Page 2-3 Page 4-5 Page 6-7 Page 8-9 Page 10-11 Page 12-13 Page 14-15 Page 16-17 Page 18-19 Page 20-21 Page 22-23 Page 24-25 Page 26-27 Page 28-29 Page 30-31 Page 32-33 Page 34-35 Page 36-37 Page 38-39 Page 40

Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online