Join us for an inspiring evening at the New York Wild Tomorrow Gala on Friday, November 15th at the Plaza Hotel! This gathering is more than just a celebration; it’s an opportunity to support a vital mission of conservation and community impact, helping protect endangered species and preserve natural habitats in Africa.
This year, the gala will honor a team of K9s and rangers who risk their lives daily to protect rhinos from poachers. The Umvikeli Wildlife Protector Award, an international award that recognizes an individual or organization working tirelessly to protect wildlife and wild spaces, will recognize the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi K9 Unit’s brave work on the frontlines of the rhino poaching crisis at Africa’s oldest proclaimed nature reserve, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, in KwaZulu-Natal South Africa.
Saving Endangered Species in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Founded in 2015 by dedicated conservationists Wendy Hapgood and John Steward, Wild Tomorrow has worked tirelessly to protect and restore critical habitats for endangered species in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Through the creation of wildlife corridors, Wild Tomorrow connects fragmented landscapes, enabling animals to roam more freely and safely.
So far, the organization has protected over 4,000 acres of land, bridging a critical area between the renowned Phinda Private Game Reserve and the UNESCO World Heritage Wetland, two of South Africa’s most vital conservation areas. This connected ecosystem forms part of Africa’s Elephant Coast, a global biodiversity hotspot where preserving even small areas has a big impact.
A Special Connection to the Hamptons
For those in the Hamptons, Wild Tomorrow’s story holds a unique local connection. Chairman Seth Hendon, a long-time resident of Amagansett, was instrumental in securing Wild Tomorrow’s first piece of land. Many of the organization’s New York-based donors also have ties to the Hamptons, sharing a love for nature and wildlife conservation.
Supporting Wild Tomorrow not only means contributing to international conservation but also joining a passionate local network committed to preserving our planet.
Wildlife, Women, and Community: Conservation that Empowers
Wild Tomorrow’s approach goes beyond land conservation. The organization deeply values community involvement, working closely with local Zulu communities. They employ rangers and a dedicated team of 15 women who lead efforts in ecosystem restoration, providing essential income and fostering connections with the natural world. Wild Tomorrow’s commitment to community-centered conservation, with a strong focus on empowering women, is reshaping the landscape of conservation in Africa.
Join Us for the Gala
This year’s Wild Tomorrow Gala at the Plaza Hotel on Friday, November 15th promises to be a memorable evening, celebrating achievements, looking forward to the future, and raising crucial funds to continue this impactful work. By attending, you can help further the organization’s mission to save and restore Africa’s biodiversity while empowering local communities. This is your chance to be part of something permanent—a legacy of conservation that stands the test of time.