Ubuntu means: "I am, because you are" in Zulu.
Ubuntu Society was born from a childhood dream to explore the world, learn about other cultures, and protect Earth's wildest places, their ecosystems, and all living things within them.
A Word From Our Founder:
Sean Jacobs
From a young age, I've been captivated by nature. Whether pursuing wildlife for book reports, envisioning future careers, or spending afternoons knee-deep in pond water chasing tadpoles, the wild has always called to me with its majestic and untamed beauty.
This passion blossomed during my high school and college years, where my admiration for Africa and its remarkable landscapes and people spurred me into action. Though uncertain at first about my path, I embarked on a journey of discovery—learning Swahili, volunteering at a primate sanctuary in Palm Harbor, Florida, and eventually fundraising for a volunteer trip to Uganda and Kenya. That experience irrevocably altered my worldview and deepened my understanding of the educational, conservation, and economic challenges facing the most impoverished regions of the world.
Throughout this journey, my early zeal for environmentalism matured into pragmatic, community-focused conservation. Inspired by the Londolozi Game Reserve in South Africa, I embraced the philosophy of Ubuntu, recognizing our deep interconnectedness. In a rapidly evolving world, this ethos of unity and cooperation is essential, pushing us beyond our comfort zones and societal norms to ensure no one is left behind.
My travels allowed me to see reflections of myself in the joyful smiles of Ugandan children, the dedicated rangers guiding us to the mountain gorillas, and fellow volunteers from around the globe. These encounters profoundly shifted my understanding of life and my purpose within it.
The dream to start a nonprofit has always been with me, but only now have I found my true calling. Ubuntu Society aims to unite people globally, fostering unexpected relationships and enhancing educational and economic conditions in East Africa. We invite those from developed nations to join life-altering adventures in Africa's wild places, transforming their life trajectories and the communities we support.
Along this path, I've forged significant connections and built bridges, simplifying the way for donors and volunteers to maximize their impact. Our goal is to create a symbiosis between those able to donate but not travel, and those eager to volunteer but lacking funds.
I hope our story inspires continued action and change within our community of volunteers and donors. I am grateful to see these dreams unfolding and eager for you to join us on this transformative journey.
