On the 11th of June 2013 Julia Gramkow, a Laddsworth Primary School old girl and a Miss Earth South Africa regional finalist visited Ndabezinhle Crèche in Sweetwaters where she planted three Leopard Trees. The trees, compost and oranges were sponsored by HiltonVillage.co.za.
The sponsored Leopard Trees or another name is Brazilian Ironwood (Caesalpinia Ferra) were a great choice as they are fast growing and water wise. They prefer full sun which is abundant on the warmer north facing area of the Ndabezinhle property where they have been planted.
The principal of the crèche, Nelly was over joyed to have these beautiful trees on her property, as they are desperate for shade. In the future shade from these trees will provide the children at Ndabezinhle Crèche with a cooler space for the children to sit at lunchtimes.
Each tree was planted with all of the children being involved; we all put a hand full of soil into each hole, forming a relationship with the trees in promising to take care of it. It was wonderful to see and experience the excitement from the children as they learned that they were not just planting a tree, but a life.
After a successful tree planting, it was teatime and the children thoroughly enjoyed some of the fresh oranges. Everyone sat down in the lovely winter sun and Julia discussed with all of the children, how they could help in making sure the trees grow to their full potential. The children promised to nurture this tree as they do with their own vegetable garden on the property.
After giggles, smiles and sticky orange hugs, it was time to leave after a lovely morning that will not be forgotten.
We extend a big thank you to Julia for inviting HiltonVillage.co.za to share in her journey as a Miss Earth regional finalist and wish her success. Ndabezinhle Crèche is grateful for the shade they will be blessed with in time.
Visit Hilton Cares if you would like to contribute to some of the projects aimed at uplifting Hilton.
