On 19 September 2024, the first-ever Husqvarna Schools Forest Rehabilitation Challenge in association with Ferncliffe forest wilding, took place in Pietermaritzburg. This exciting event saw learners from Durban High School and Weston Agricultural College competing in a tree-planting race, designed to restore local forests and foster environmental stewardship among our youth.
According to Timothy Isabirye, Husqvarna South Africa’s Marketing Manager, a handful of boys’ schools from Pietermaritzburg and surrounding areas were initially invited to participate in the challenge. Despite their busy end-of-term schedules, it was Durban High School (DHS) and Weston Agricultural College that jumped at the opportunity to make a difference in their community. “We were truly touched by the enthusiasm of DHS and Weston, who signed up despite the boys’ busy schedules and approaching school holidays,” he said.
For Isabirye, selecting a Nonprofit Organisation (NPO) partner and planting location was an easy decision. “With our sales office in Pietermaritzburg, it was natural to give back to our immediate community,” he explained. “And, our commitment to sustainability and local environmental protection aligned perfectly with NPO Ferncliffe forest wilding’s mission, making them the perfect partner for this initiative.”
“We were really excited when Husqvarna approached us with the idea of this Challenge,” said Janine Stephen, a representative from Ferncliffe forest wilding. “Collaborating with schools and businesses like Husqvarna to protect and restore endangered mistbelt forest habitat is exactly the kind of community-driven action we need in a world where so much biodiversity is under threat.”
In an exhilarating race, boys from each school, armed with spades and gloves provided by Husqvarna were tasked with digging 15 holes as quickly as possible. As expected, the competitive spirit was high, but the focus on making a positive difference to the environment stayed top of mind for all involved. And, in the end, it was Weston Agricultural College that emerged victorious. They earned bragging rights and a Husqvarna battery-operated leaf blower worth R10 000 (including accessories) for their school, along with a trophy to celebrate their achievement. DHS didn’t go home empty-handed either. They were rewarded with a R5000 e-commerce voucher to use on the Husqvarna South Africa website. Every participating learner also received a certificate in recognition of their contribution to this impactful initiative.
“This challenge was a fantastic opportunity for our learners to step up and contribute to something greater,” said Barry Coskey, DHS Head of Marketing & Admissions. He further added, “At DHS, we aim to develop responsible, motivated young men with strong moral convictions, and today they truly embodied those values. Through their self-discipline, courage, and strength, they showed us the leaders they are becoming. We couldn’t be prouder!”
“At Weston, we love embracing challenges, particularly those that safeguard our environment. We also strive to instil a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility in our learners, and this initiative provided an excellent opportunity for them to rise to the occasion. We’re immensely proud of their efforts and the impact we’ve made on this vital cause. It demonstrates that despite our busy lives, there’s always room to contribute meaningfully to our community,” said Amber Pollock, Head of Marketing for Weston.
The event has laid the foundation for what is hoped to become an annual event, expanding its reach and impact in the coming years. “This is just the beginning. We’re committed to making this challenge an annual celebration, where schools come together to not only compete but create real, lasting environmental change,” Isabirye concluded.
The Husqvarna Schools Forest Rehabilitation Challenge is part of the brand’s larger commitment to sustainability and community engagement. By focusing on the importance of forests and fostering environmental awareness, Husqvarna continues to plant the seeds of change—one tree at a time.