**South Africa is one of the most beautiful and biodiverse countries on Earth. That’s why WWF South Africa is inviting everyone to play their part in a nationwide visual movement, Our Country, Through Your Lens – capturing the places, people, and wildlife that showcase our incredible natural heritage.**
Local TV presenter, actor, and WWF South Africa board member, Masego ‘Maps’ Maponyane, is championing the movement. “We have fynbos found nowhere else. Wide, open spaces with unique plants and animals. Oceans teeming with life. Birds that soar above our cities and towns, and communities whose connection to nature runs deep. But none of it is guaranteed.”
In a time of climate change and environmental loss, Our Country, Through Your Lens is a user-generated photo competition calling on South Africans – whether budding photographers or phone-snappers – to document South Africa’s natural heritage and show why it is so important for us to take care of it.
“We choose to believe in better, not because we’re naïve about the challenges, but because we know that better begins with belief,” says WWF CEO Dr Morné du Plessis. “From restoring rivers in the Drakensberg’s water source areas to growing black rhino populations and creating green jobs for youth across the country, our work shows that a better future isn’t a fantasy, it’s already happening.”
“This movement is about encouraging people to stop, observe, and acknowledge what really matters in our day-to-day lives,” he adds. “From a child planting a tree to the sun rising over the ocean, if it makes you believe in something better, take the shot and share it.”
How to take part:
- Entries open: 12 May – 6 June 2025
- Enter by posting your photo as a comment on WWF South Africa’s Facebook page or uploading it to Instagram or TikTok – tagging @WWFSouthAfrica and using #BelieveInBetter.
A panel of expert judges, including a globally published photojournalist, humanitarian storyteller, and an award-winning creative director, will shortlist 20 standout images. From 9 to 27 June, the public will vote for their favourite. Winners will be announced on 2 July, with a curated public exhibition to follow.
Prizes:
- The winner will enjoy a luxury two-night photo safari for two at Madwaleni River Lodge in the Babanango Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal. The prize includes meals and accommodation, and daily game drives in the company of a professional photographer.
- Four runners-up will each receive a large Recycled Buddy Backpack from Sealand Gear, valued at R 2,695.00.
“Your camera is more powerful than you think,” says Maponyane. “It’s how we frame what matters. And if we don’t tell that story, who will?”
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