More Than a Shoebox

A tradition of kindness

Every year, something special happens at Southern Destinations.

It's Santa Shoebox time!

For more than fifteen years, supporting the Santa Shoebox Project has become an annual event on our calendar, championed by Lise Kargaard on our team. What started as a simple way to give back has grown into a tradition our team looks forward to every year.

Each shoebox is packed for a specific child, carefully labelled with their name, age and gender – a reminder that these aren't anonymous donations but gifts prepared with one individual in mind.

Every box carries the same message:

Someone you've never met believes you matter.

As safari planners, we're in the business of creating memories. We hope that, in some small way, these carefully packed shoeboxes have created a few more – helping every child who receives one feel seen, valued and special.

A small box. A big moment.

It's easy to underestimate what fits inside a shoebox.

A toothbrush, soap and washcloth.
Assorted educational supplies.
A new T-shirt, hat or flip flops.
A colouring book.
A ball.
A cuddly toy.

Simple things that many of us take for granted can become treasured possessions for a child receiving their very own Santa Shoebox. For many children, it's the first gift they've ever received that has been chosen especially for them.

Looking back

As we look through photographs spanning more than fifteen years, we can see that we've all grown a little older. Some familiar faces have moved on, new ones have joined the team, but one thing has never changed – the smiles.

Every photograph captures the same spirit of generosity, teamwork and shared purpose that has made this tradition so special year after year. They remind us that giving doesn't have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with a shoebox, a little time, and a group of people who simply want to make someone else's day a little brighter.

Giving back, together

Through the Malachite Foundation, Southern Destinations supports community initiatives that create meaningful, lasting impact across Southern Africa. The Santa Shoebox Project has become one of the many ways our team comes together to contribute to that mission.

Santa Shoebox is just one of the initiatives that reminds us how powerful collective generosity can be.

Thank you

To our team who has wrapped, packed, donated, delivered or simply lent a helping hand over the years – thank you. Here's to many more years of filling shoeboxes, sharing smiles and proving that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave the biggest impression.