Main area of focus in Caring for the Destination:  

Environment and Society - community development and youth.
 

Detailed description of the Caring for the Destination Initiative: 

Environment
White Shark Projects is grateful for the privilege and opportunity to work with the ocean's greatest predator. Their aim to cause no harm and to enhance the chances of survival of this species.

White Shark Projects was founded in 1989 as a research centre. Since then it has grown its services to include a film department, diving and viewing centre and a separate conservation and educational department. Their dedicated shark team have been conducting population dynamics and behavioural research since 1991.We also run volunteer programs which will enable you to put any knowledge you gain into action by assisting in conservation and research. When you are on tour you will listen to educational talks about why this species is to be respected and not feared.

Society
Recognising the intrinsic relationship between healthy communities and sustainability, White Shark Projects is involved community development projects. They are committed to social growth beyond just providing equitable employment; they provide much needed resources, foster positive relationships between business and community, and reverse / mitigate welfare dependencies amongst the local Masekhane community.

One of their most recent projects is the Masekhane/White Shark Projects Swop Shop. It combines conservation, social improvement and education in a unique way. The children of Masekhane collect recyclables (bottles, tins, plastics) and bring them to the White Shark 'Swop Shop'. In return, they earn buying points that they 'spend' in the shop on items such as soap, pencils, basic food items, and second-hand clothing. They can even save up for more expensive items, like toys. The shop runs completely on donations and only carries socially responsible items (ie not candies etc).

The underlying vision of the Swop Shop is to empower these historically disadvantaged children, helping them grow into self-sufficient, contributing adults. By encouraging them to use what they have around them, they see that in small ways they can improve their lives. Plus they are recycling and creating a healthier community in the process.

In addition to supporting this project through participating in White Shark Project tours, you can volunteer at and donate to the Swop Shop. Popular items are calculators, stationary, storybooks, soap, tooth brushes, tooth paste, clothes, torches and stuffed toys.