With the bulk of our news generally focusing on negative issues, it was with great delight that we heard in early May that Cabinet endorsed a report calling for an end to lion farming, captive lion hunting, cub-petting, and the commercial farming of rhinos.

Environment Minister Barbara Creecy announced that government would adopt the recommendations made and has approved to ban the breeding of lions in captivity for trophy hunting and commercial exploitation. This comes at the back of a two-year long investigation and 580-page report from the high-level panel that was appointment by government. It is seen by many as a big step towards repositioning the country as a global leader in conservation.

It is not law yet as the report still has a long way to go before it is translated to legislative changes. At least the process is in motion and will enable us to protect what we love.

In our very first blog in September 2019, we introduced you to the Big Cat Youth Ambassadors Drew & Sebastian from Camps Bay High. The students now 17, continues to inspire, teach & educate others about the plight of big cats in SA & worldwide. In March 2020 they handed over a petition against captive lion breeding to Minister Creesy, making a part of the ban their victory too! Their project has come a long way since inception and we recently paid them another visit.

The BIG CAT YOUTH COLLECTION was created especially for them to raise money for big cat sanctuaries and to promote the plight of big cats worldwide. This incredibly unique range of beautifully handmade lions, lionesses, tigers & leopards are made with love & gratitude by the Raising Rhino People Project - a skills, employment & awareness program working with local & rural communities. A work opportunity has been created through this project.

To date over 500 handmade big cats have found their way all over the world spreading awareness. Each handmade big cat is numbered and one-of-a-kind

At Welcome Assist we could not think of a better cause to support and let’s face it – the handmade lions are so adorable! We have added the latest addition that is up for adoption to our website.

Supporting a cause that is close to your heart is so fulfilling. Do you have any projects with products that you are passionate about and would like to stretch their reach? Please send us an e-mail to Nicci@welcomeassist.co.za with the details - we would love to explore other worthy causes to support with our sales channel.

The trickle of tourists that has started coming through has been encouraging. Lets hope its a sign of good things to come.

Best wishes

THE WELCOME ASSIST TEAM