The Cape Leopard Trust is thrilled and proud to be celebrating our 20th birthday this year! Born in 2004 from one man’s desire to research and protect leopards in the Cederberg, the organisation has since organically grown into a dedicated team of core staff, students, advisors, trustees and public supporters. We have built countless partnerships and valuable collaborations; expanded our footprint to the broader Western Cape and beyond; and made immeasurable contributions to leopard research, biodiversity conservation and environmental education.
This notable anniversary was fittingly celebrated on Thursday 22 August, when friends and supporters gathered at the Two Oceans Aquarium for a glittering gala dinner and fundraising auction. Entertained by members of the Cape Town Opera and in the hands of charismatic MC Nico Panagio, guests enjoyed the magical backdrop of the I&J tank and a leopard inspired lightshow, setting the scene for South Africa's top female auctioneer, Ariella Kuper, whose witty and engaging style twisted more than a few arms.
The choice of venue was particularly poignant, as it was at the Two Oceans Aquarium that an infant Cape Leopard Trust held its first fundraiser exactly twenty years ago, then piquing the interest of Leopard's Leap Wines – who remain loyal supporters today and who provided the wine for this occasion. The birthday event itself was graciously sponsored by local tour operator, Travel Designer. Owner Ozzy Yerlikaya shared how he discovered the CLT’s efforts to protect the elusive leopards of the Cape, and how conservation has inspired his and partner Ree's decision to become the custodians of Bakkrans Nature Reserve and Retreat in the Cederberg, which he officially launched to the public at the dinner. Cape Leopard Trust CEO, Helen Turnbull, touched on the important role of predators in ensuring that the Cape's spectacular terrestrial and ocean landscapes remain intact for the benefit of its wildlife and people, providing us the privilege of enjoying life in and experiencing one of the most beautiful places on earth.
On behalf of our Board of Trustees and the Cape Leopard Trust team, a sincere and heartfelt thank you to all the partners, sponsors and guests who made this wonderful 20-year journey and celebration possible. We truly value all of you, and we look forward with gratitude and excitement to whatever wild ride the next 20 years may bring!
A special word of thanks to the many persons and companies who donated time, goods, expertise and auction items for this auspicious event: Travel Designer, Leopard’s Leap Wine, Brooke Buckland, Two Oceans Aquarium, Dylan Lewis Studio, Caroline Kappers, Ree Treweek, Kimi Maré, Executive Mayor Geordin Hill Lewis, Cederberg Wines, Leopard Valley Eco Retreat, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat, La Residence & The Royal Portfolio, Robert Rorich, Coral Bloom Studio, Kloovenburg & Pieter-Steph du Toit, The Hannarie Wenhold Botanical Art Gallery, Kambaku at Sea, Design Mania, Happy By Nature, Nico Panagio, Ariella Kuper, Cape Town Opera.
Images by Armand Hough and others.
