Today, no tea for a change, but elephants
On safari in Udawalawe National Park in Sri Lanka
After last year’s enjoyable beach trip, it was time for another special day together. The employees of the organic and Fairtrade tea factory in Gampola went on safari in Udawalawe National Park in Sri Lanka.
On safari together in Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe National Park is located in the south of Sri Lanka and is best known for its large population of wild elephants. The national park covers around 308 km² and consists of open plains, forests and wetlands.
During the safari, the employees travelled through the park by jeep. Naturally, there was plenty of attention for the elephants, but Udawalawe is also home to many other animals, including water buffalo, crocodiles, monkeys and a wide variety of bird species.
For the tea factory employees, it was mainly a great opportunity to spend time together outside their usual working environment. A day away from work, with time to look around, take photos and enjoy the surroundings together.
A follow-up to last year’s beach trip
Last year, a group beach trip was organised for the employees. It was so well received that another day out was planned this year.
This time, Udawalawe National Park was chosen. For many visitors to Sri Lanka, the park is a well-known destination, but for people living in Sri Lanka, a visit is not always something that can be taken for granted.
That made it all the more enjoyable to experience the day together.
Practical support for home
In addition to the safari, the employees also received practical items for use at home. These included rice cookers and other useful kitchen appliances.
This meant the project was not only about spending a day together, but also about providing employees and their families with something practical they can use at home.
Projects in Sri Lanka
The Fair Grounds Foundation supports a variety of projects for local communities around tea production in Sri Lanka. These range from projects focused on education, healthcare and living conditions to practical support and shared activities such as this safari.
Tea of Life and the Fair Grounds Foundation
For every kilogram of Tea of Life tea sold, €0.25 goes towards projects supported by the Fair Grounds Foundation in Sri Lanka.
Together, all these contributions make it possible to support a wide range of initiatives. In this way, there is a direct connection between the tea being sold and the people at the beginning of the tea supply chain.