Big Beyond Foundation & Big Beyond

Operated from 2010-2016. Acquired by African Impact (South Africa based company 2014) and Big Beyond Foundation projects phased out 2016. The philosophy of Big Beyond was to contribute to the development of conservation area communities in remote Africa (Uganda, Ethiopia & Malawi) and build upon existing skills and resources, beyond handouts. A holistic approach was taken to integrate tourism, development and conservation of these areas including a range of innovative grassroots initiatives across business, conservation, health, culture, education and research. Immersed in marginalised villages selected as beneficiaries (informed by extensive field research listening and discussing goals, challenges and ideas of local people) a permanent local team coordinated ongoing initiatives liaising with local communities, protected area management and the public sector. A sustainable funding source and its HR capacity was supplemented by linking the NGO to opportunities identified in the global tourism industry. The model brought together senior level corporate professionals, retirees and ambitious youth from around the world to work-side-by side with local people, sharing skills, to achieve project goals. Bespoke travel-work placements were facilitated, combined with a team managing all-inclusive accommodation, meals, unique experiences, etc. Big Beyond Foundation was a non-profit organisation, researching and implementing ongoing projects in Africa. Big Beyond Ltd was an adventure travel brand and profit financed the operational costs of the foundation. It created 25 local jobs in rural Africa offering personal/professional development and forming a loyal team. It also facilitated paid work placements and travel experiences for over 200 international people. Big Beyond built a solid presence in challenging, undeveloped and remote areas of Africa, and inspired a shift in local perspectives towards opportunities for more sustainable...