"That which is common to the greatest number gets the least amount of care. " Aristotle
https://www.protectourpaths.com
South Africa is a land of contrasts—stunning natural spaces with severe waste issues, eager workers but a dearth of opportunity, and corporate funding searching for real impact. Founded by Sealand & Skybound Capital, Protect Our Paths Foundation bridges these divides by empowering underprivileged individuals to become custodians of our natural spaces. These custodians remove waste, educate the public on recycling and conservation, and play a vital role in maintaining shared environments.
We provide training, funding, and equipment while facilitating donations and partnerships to ensure long-term impact. With your support, we can continue to uplift people, protect our natural playgrounds, and create a cleaner, more connected future.
This Foundation was inspired by the Sealand partnership with Keith Kleans, a previously unemployed custodian who was doing great work keeping Saunders Beach clean. We found ways to support him and facilitate greater donations, and decided to scale this across a number of locations. The decision was made to set up POP Foundation as a separate entity to be able to enter into agreements and hold separate funding relationships independently of Sealand, providing us with a vehicle dedicated to one job and one job only - waste management and upliftment in these areas. We currently have 7 custodians across Saunders (Shaun), Queens (Keith), Cecilia Forest (Billy, Chris & Nazer) and Hout Bay Beach (David).
Protect Our Paths Foundation is a registered Environmental Partner of the 1% For The Planet network and is in the process of acquiring PBO status in South Africa. Future partnerships are being explored, including MOUs with SANParks and CoCT to work safely within these spaces. Our aim is to support communities utilising all the spaces we enjoy as outdoorspeople within our incredible home city - and then expand this to the rest of our country.
With your help, and our continued support for our custodians, we can keep our spaces beautiful, safe and pristine. With your help, we can Protect Our Paths!
