The History of SHAPE—Africa

 

While Valerie Hare was in South Africa in 2006, discussions with Robynn Ingle-Möller from the National Zoological Gardens and Marianne de Vries from Royal Canin, led to the conceptualisation of SHAPE—Africa. This regional branch of The Shape of Enrichment, Inc is well placed to deliver the message of enrichment within the African continent.

In February of 2008 a steering committee was formed in order to make this idea a reality.

SHAPE—Africa was launched at the African Association of Zoos and Aquaria (PAAZAB) conference in Durban, South Africa in May 2008 and subsequently endorsed (click here to view letter).

It was here that Joanne Osuagwhu became involved and soon became chair and with a new committee consisting of Nomusa Mthlungu, Collete Bodenstaff, Elsie Pieterse and Robynn Ingle-Moller the Branch grew from 2008 to 2010.

Valerie conducted workshops prior to the 2008 Animal Keepers Association of Africa (AKAA) conference in September 2008. These workshops were conducted at the National Zoological Gardens, Johannesburg Zoo, de Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife Trust, Sea World and Tenikwa Wildlife Centre.  Valerie also conducted a lecture at the University of Pretoria. During this time SHAPE-Africa and AKAA (see endorsement) developed a proactive relationship that places SHAPE—Africa in the fore front as an expert body for providing information, workshops and any other enrichment based knowledge for their members and that of SHAPE—Africa Friends (members).

 

As an example of this relationship, Valerie and SHAPE—Africa successfully presented at the 2009 PAAZAB/ AKAA Symposium at UWEC, Uganda in May 2009. Where the audience consisted of delegates from Tunisia, Madagascar, UK, Japan, Cameroon, USA Egypt and South Africa and who represented eleven organisations.

Since then SHAPE—Africa have held several workshops at Bloemfontein Zoo, Gold Reef City, Bester Birds Animals & Zoo as well as done consultation for FreeMe and individuals within the industry.  SHAPE—Africa is seen as a positive force and is regularly asked to assist with projects and advice by both PAAZAB and AKAA. 

 

Thank you for taking the time to familiarise yourself with this organisation and we look forward to meeting you in the future. For further queries as to holding a workshop you may contact SHAPE—Africa.

Thank you for taking the time to familiarize yourself with this organisation and we look forward to meeting you in the future.

 

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