VetBooks for Africa Initiatives

Since our new VetBooks for Africa committee was elected in May for the 2025/2026 term, we’ve hit the ground running, committed to carrying forward the vision and mission set by those who came before us. We have already held several meetings with potential sponsors, donors and collaborators, and are grateful to welcome both companies and individuals who have joined us on this journey. To keep up to date on our sponsors and donor companies, please keep an eye out on our social media platforms as well as our website, where they will soon be announced and thanked for their generous support and collaboration!

Between committee planning sessions, coordinating with partner universities across Africa, and exploring possible travel dates and routes, our social media team has been actively promoting our cause and organizing small fundraising events to build engagement and secure additional resources.

Wherever we go, we take every opportunity to set up our gazebo and banner, showcase some of the books we distribute, sell our delicious fundraising vetkoek and share the VetBooks For Africa story. We’re also looking forward to potential radio and TV interviews in the coming weeks that will help us reach an even broader audience, as well as an upcoming cycle challenge where we will hit the spin bikes for a 12 hour spinathon, raising much needed funds for our initiative. 

Planning an initiative of this scale takes time, and while the early stages may feel slow, we’re focused on gathering all the essential information we need, from border requirements and country-specific university needs, to aligning with our own academic calendars , so as to build a solid framework for our planned seven week journey in 2026.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to HERD for their incredible hospitality during our 2025 team-building weekend, held from the 7th to the 10th of August. The weekend proved to be a tremendous success, filled with both learning and giving back. We had the privilege of presenting a talk at Lowveld Academy in Hoedspruit to Grade 9 and Matric learners, where we spoke about the importance of Veterinary Science and careers in conservation, hoping to inspire a passion in the learners that mirrors our own. We also volunteered at Xilaveko Daycare Centre, where we revitalized their playground to create a safer environment for the energetic toddlers, and handed over generous donations of stationery, school books, and other learning aids. Our time at HERD gave us valuable insight into the management and day-to-day care that goes into running such a meaningful project, deepening our appreciation for the work they do. We also visited the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC), where we learned firsthand about their role in preserving endangered species bloodlines, an eye-opening and inspiring experience for the whole team. Of course, there was also time to unwind and connect as a team. Between rounds of “30 Seconds” and sharing our big ideas for the term ahead, we came away closer than ever and full of excitement for what lies ahead. We cannot wait to put our plans into action in the near future!

We’re excited about what’s to come, and were even more excited to share our progress with you. Please feel free to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube and have a look at our newly updated website for updates on what the team is doing and how you can get involved!

Warm regards,

The (newly elected) VetBooks for Africa Team!!