Rotary Fellowship Takes Flight on African Wildlife Safari
From July 28 through August 12, Rotarians and friends explored Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa, experiencing some of Africa’s most spectacular natural and cultural treasures. The itinerary included the thundering waters of Victoria Falls, wildlife safaris through Hwange National Park and Chobe, the tranquil waterways of Botswana’s Okavango Delta by traditional mokoro canoe, and the breathtaking scenery, history, cuisine, and vineyards of Cape Town.
Four travelers from the Rotary Club of Youngstown participated in the journey, strengthening friendships while creating new ones along the way.
One of the most meaningful experiences was a visit to the Rose of Charity orphanage in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Founded in 2008 by Sima, a local woman committed to providing shelter and education to vulnerable children, the center serves children orphaned by HIV/AIDS.
Before the trip, the group worked directly with Sima to identify the center’s most urgent needs. Thanks to the generosity of Rotarians, travelers, and friends, the group delivered jackets, underwear, toiletries, medicines, school supplies, soccer balls, toys, and other essentials for children from infants through age 18.
The service continued when Youngstown Rotarian Jack Kravitz suggested purchasing a new sewing machine for the center. The travelers quickly pooled their resources, and the machine arrived during their second visit. It will help Rose of Charity become more self-sufficient by allowing the children and staff to make blankets and create items such as aprons and bags for sale.
Wildlife encounters were another highlight. Travelers witnessed elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, hippos, and an extraordinary variety of birdlife, including the iconic red-billed hornbill, known to many as Zazu from The Lion King.
The journey also offered opportunities for reflection. A visit to Robben Island provided a powerful history lesson through firsthand accounts from former political prisoners who served alongside Nelson Mandela.
Although the group did not attend a Rotary club meeting during this particular trip—the safari itinerary took them into remote areas with little free time—the Rotary spirit was present throughout the journey. The experience demonstrated that Rotary fellowship and Service Above Self can transcend borders, creating connections and friendships that last long after the journey ends.
The group is already looking ahead. A 2027 Rotary trip to Croatia and Slovenia has 10 spots remaining, with Rotarians from Boardman, Canfield, and Youngstown already registered. In 2028, the group will travel to Santiago, Patagonia, Buenos Aires, and Iguazu Falls, with only six spots remaining.
Rotarians from all clubs are invited to join this growing traveling community. Trips are expertly planned through EF Go Ahead Tours, making it easy for participants to focus on fellowship and enjoying the experience.
For information about upcoming trips, contact Ana Torres at grouptravelyrc@gmail.com. To learn more about Rose of Charity, visit roccpo.org/programs.
