Partners.

NVT Tsitsikamma NPC

A community-driven conservation organisation advancing environmental education, research, and conservation action in and around Nature’s Valley and the surrounding landscape. Through years of participatory engagement with the Kurland and Covie communities, NVT developed KuCoNa’s theory of change and programme model around the community’s own vision, aspirations and priorities, ensuring the centre was built from the inside out. As an implementation partner, NVT provides overall management and leads the development and coordination of the centre’s programmes and partnerships.

Mungo MOVE

Mungo is a South African textile company based near Plettenberg Bay. Through its social responsibility initiative, MOVE, Mungo supports education, environmental conservation, and community development across the greater Plettenberg Bay area. MOVE is a key funder and partner of KuCoNa, supporting the Centre’s development, infrastructure, and broader growth.

DT Foundation

The Direct Transact Foundation is a registered South African non-profit and public benefit organisation that supports practical, community-driven initiatives relating to education, healthcare, food and water access, safe community spaces, and livelihood opportunities. As a key funding partner, the Foundation provides essential funding that enables KuCoNa to operate and deliver its programmes and services.

Bitou Municipality

Bitou Municipality is the local government authority serving Plettenberg Bay and surrounding communities, including Kurland and Covie. The Municipality is a key partner and supporter of KuCoNa and supports community development, environmental awareness, waste management, and cleaning and greening initiatives that contribute to healthier and more sustainable community spaces.

The Crags in Beweging

Crags in Beweging supports community-led initiatives in Kurland Village, including sports development, education, food security and practical development. It is the primary funder of the annual KuCoNa Colour Run Smile Day and KuCoNa’s chicken and garden entrepreneurship programme in Covie, which provides practical, learning-by-doing entrepreneurship opportunities. It is also a strong supporter of initiatives led by Elderly United and the Group of Hope.

Ripples for Change

Strengthens rural communities through early childhood development, food security, and opportunities for children and young people.

The Sound of a Smile Program

Supports sustainable community programmes in Kurland Village, including after-school learning, youth development, and housing improvement.

BuildSTEM

BuildSTEM provides engaging, hands-on STEM learning for children. Big Builders introduces younger children to early learning concepts through guided construction and play, while Bricks Challenge uses LEGO®-based models and mechanical components to develop science, technology, engineering, mathematics, creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Community partner

UCT – Healthy Futures South Africa

Healthy Futures SA focuses on youth development and provides mentorship and practical support to young people who are not in employment, education, or training. Through its partnership with KuCoNa, Healthy Futures SA helps young people build confidence, develop personal and work-readiness skills, access opportunities, and identify pathways into further learning, employment, or entrepreneurship.

RAP The Crags

RAP The Crags is a community-based recovery programme that supports individuals and families affected by substance dependency. Through peer support, structured recovery activities, and community awareness, RAP helps participants work towards sustained recovery, restored relationships, and healthier lives.

Community partner

PlettAid Foundation

The PlettAid Foundation promotes health and wellbeing throughout the Bitou area. Its services include home-based palliative care through Hospice Plett, free health education and screening through the Plett Wellness Programme, and access to medical equipment. PlettAid is connected to KuCoNa’s Community Care Hub, helping to strengthen access to community health, care, and support services.

Cultural Connections

Cultural Connections for Conservation and Restoration creates learning, sharing, and healing spaces that connect people with themselves, one another, their cultural roots, and nature. The organisation facilitates the Eco Youth Circle at KuCoNa, a supportive, nature-based programme through which young people participate in experiential learning, creative activities, life-skills development, and meaningful experiences in nature.

Elderly United

Elderly United is a community group that brings older community members together through sport, sewing, social activities, and shared experiences. Its activities promote active ageing, creativity, friendship, and a continued sense of connection and participation in community life.

Community partner

Group of Hope

Group of Hope is a community group supporting people with a range of physical, intellectual, and psychosocial support needs. Through inclusive activities, social connection, and mutual support, the group creates opportunities for members to participate more fully in community life and strengthens their wellbeing and sense of belonging.

Community partner