Wilderness and Children in the Wilderness (CITW) have been recognised on Virtuoso Magazine’s 2026 Impact List, an international acknowledgement celebrating 26 organisations around the world that are transforming lives and landscapes through travel.
The recognition places Wilderness and CITW among a select group of global organisations lauded for creating meaningful and measurable impact through travel and tourism. In Botswana, CITW has worked with thousands of children and communities over the past two-and-a-half decades, helping nurture future conservation leaders and deepen understanding of the importance of protecting natural heritage for generations to come.
‘This recognition is deeply meaningful because it reflects the collective effort of so many people who have contributed to this journey over the decades,’ said Joe Matome, Caretaker Managing Director of Wilderness Botswana. ‘Children in the Wilderness represents one of the most important investments we can make in conservation: investing in young people. Through education, exposure and opportunity, we are helping inspire future custodians of Botswana’s natural heritage, while reinforcing our Impact Educate, Empower and Protect pillars and the vital connection between communities, conservation and sustainable tourism.’ Joe added that the recognition also reflects Botswana’s continued role in shaping globally respected models of responsible tourism and conservation impact.
Community Development Projects and Stakeholder at Wilderness Botswana, Keneilwe Mathaba, said the recognition celebrates not only the programme’s legacy, but also the potential of the young people it continues to support. ‘For 25 years, Children in the Wilderness has focused on creating opportunities for children to learn, grow and see themselves as part of the future of conservation,’ said Keneliwe. ‘This recognition is ultimately about the young people, communities, teachers, facilitators and partners who continue to believe in the power of education and environmental stewardship to change lives, empowering future conservation leaders. We are incredibly proud to see Botswana recognised on a global platform in this way.’
The Virtuoso Impact List recognises organisations across the world that are using travel as a force for positive change, celebrating leadership in sustainability, community empowerment and conservation impact. This latest recognition adds to a growing body of international acknowledgement for Wilderness’ conservation-led tourism model and its long-term commitment to creating lasting positive impact across Africa.
Read the full Impact List here.