Nourish Eco Village: A Model for Community Empowerment and Environmental Stewardship in South Africa
Nourish Eco Village empowers communities through education, sustainable agriculture, ethical tourism, and wildlife conservation in South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province.
By
Jul 31, 2025
Nestled in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa, close to the renowned Kruger National Park, Nourish Eco Village is a prime example of how community empowerment and environmental conservation can go hand in hand. Founded in 2011 by Sarah Dawn Bergs, Nourish Eco Village has emerged as a leader in demonstrating the power of sustainable community development while fostering a deep respect for nature and wildlife.
Empowering Communities for a Sustainable Future
Nourish Eco Village was founded on the belief that addressing the needs of local communities and environmental conservation go hand in hand. South Africa's rural communities, especially those near conservation areas, have faced significant challenges such as high unemployment, limited educational opportunities, and food insecurity. Nourish aims to break this cycle by integrating community development with the promotion of sustainable environmental practices.
At Nourish, the mission is clear: When local communities are empowered, the environment thrives. This simple but powerful philosophy has guided the organization's growth and allowed it to create a space where both people and the planet benefit.
Ubuntu: A Philosophy of Connection and Collaboration
A central philosophy guiding Nourish Eco Village is Ubuntu, a Southern African principle that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all people. “I am because you are” is the essence of Ubuntu, and it is this belief that guides Nourish’s approach to community development and environmental stewardship. Nourish embraces this philosophy through programs that foster collaboration, where the community’s well-being and environmental health are prioritized.
One of Nourish's key programs is its early childhood education initiative. The village runs a preschool and after-school programs like the Green Kidz Club, which focuses on literacy, creativity, and environmental awareness. These initiatives provide children with the skills to break free from poverty and encourages them to consider careers in conservation and sustainable development.
In addition to education, Nourish Eco Village runs several agriculture-based programs, such as permaculture gardens that provide food towards the food security program for 400+ children daily. They also manage a chicken farm, a moringa orchard, and seedling nurseries, all of which create income and contribute to the local economy. Women in the community sew reusable sanitary pads, and young people learn digital literacy, while local artisans create and sell products in local markets. These projects not only provide food but also offer pathways for sustainable income generation, helping the community to thrive independently.
Tourism with Purpose: Learning and Giving Back
Nourish Eco Village also leverages ethical tourism as a means of supporting its initiatives. Visitors are invited to learn about the culture and sustainable practices of the village by participating in local activities like cultural tours, craft workshops, and traditional meals. This approach enables visitors to experience the village's way of life and directly contribute to its programs.
Unlike conventional tourism models, Nourish focuses on creating a mutually beneficial relationship where visitors not only gain cultural insights but also support the growth of local enterprises. This model helps generate vital funds for the village’s sustainability programs and promotes ethical, responsible travel.
Lasting Impact Across Generations
Nourish Eco Village’s impact extends beyond its immediate community. Through its educational programs, sustainable agricultural projects, and ethical tourism initiatives, Nourish has reached over 15,000 people and provided weekly support to more than 600 children. The success of the village has also led to the creation of Nourish USA, a registered 501(c)(3) that helps connect American donors and travelers with the work of Nourish Eco Village.
The ripple effect of Nourish’s initiatives is evident. Local wildlife conservation efforts are supported by increased community involvement in protecting the natural environment. The village’s programs have fostered a renewed sense of pride in the local heritage, empowering young people to become the next generation of conservation leaders.
A Blueprint for Sustainable Change
Nourish Eco Village is not only a nonprofit but also a social enterprise that blends community-driven programs with sustainable practices. The model focuses on empowerment rather than charity, ensuring long-term sustainability for the village. Nourish has proven that by addressing both social and environmental challenges in tandem, it is possible to create lasting, systemic change that benefits both people and the planet.
Through its work, Nourish Eco Village has set an example for other regions around the world, demonstrating how community-based initiatives can lead to both social and environmental transformation.
Why Nourish Eco Village Matters
Nourish Eco Village offers a fresh perspective on how communities can be empowered while conserving the environment. By focusing on long-term, systemic change rather than short-term fixes, Nourish has developed a model that proves sustainability doesn’t have to choose between people and the planet, it can nourish both.
Whether you are a donor looking for real, impactful change, a conscious traveler seeking authentic engagement, or simply someone passionate about the environment and social justice, Nourish Eco Village offers a powerful story of hope and transformation.
To learn more about how you can be part of this meaningful journey, visit Nourish Eco Village.
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