Honoring My Family’s Legacy of Conservation

My younger brother is a guide for one of the safari companies. He cares deeply about conservation and enjoys teaching children in our community. Because of his knowledge and fun personality, the company made him the face of their children’s conservation program. When they changed the program logo they planned a new promotional video with him in it.

But he isn’t supported financially for this work, or for the way they use his image in their publicity. When he was given the interview schedule for the film, both my name and my mother’s name were on the list—even though no one had asked us. I was surprised and confused. I think they included us because they know our family is respected in the community for our conservation work.

I spoke with Catherine about what to do. I didn’t want to cause trouble for my brother—he had already been disciplined once, just for helping me host friends during his leave. I didn’t want the company to use our family’s heritage to promote themselves, but I was also afraid to say no, since my brother is a breadwinner for the family. I didn’t want to harm his relationship with his employer.

After talking with Catherine, I felt stronger. I decided that my mother and I would not take part in the interviews.

Tebogo

Created By: Tebogo

Uploaded To: The Balancing Power of Reciprocity


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