The Foundation for a Sustainable Future

The Foundation for a Sustainable Future is a non-profit organisation that aims to create a legacy for the next generation through wildlife protection and conservation, as well as social upliftment by investing in people from previously disadvantaged communities.

The founding members and directors share a passion for South Africa, its people and its natural heritage. Individually, they have been involved in nature conservation for close to a decade, until the dream of a foundation was born out of the inspirational efforts of the South African National Parks Environmental Crime Investigation unit that combats rhino poaching in the Kruger National Park. Today, several initiatives that they have supported in their personal capacity form part of the projects that are supported by the Foundation. 

In 2022, founding members Marthinus van der Nest and Eben Karsten received the coveted Kudu Award for their efforts in nature conservation in South Africa. The SANParks Kudu Awards is an annual initiative to celebrate the successes and contributions of individuals and groups in conservation management in South Africa.

Meet the directors

Marthinus

An agriculturalist by trade, Gerhard de Beer has an inherent passion and dedication to nature conservation. In 2015 he became a volunteer at the South African National Parks Environmental Crime Investigation Unit based in Skukuza – a relationship that continues till this day.

“I believe that everyone has the ability and the will to do good and contribute to change for the better. The smallest act, singular or combined, can have a massive ripple effect. The foundation is an opportunity to make a difference on a larger scale – to contribute to nature conservation, and more specifically rhino conservation, a species that I am deeply passionate about.” 

Eben

Eben Karsten is an actuary and fund manager that has been working in the financial services industry for more than 25 years. He is passionate about nature and the development of the youth to transform South Africa into reaching its full potential. 

“I love nature and want to be more involved in conservation. I am passionate about youth development and giving under-privileged kids the ability to reach their potential. I believe that chess is a great way to open kids’ minds to a different way of thinking. I support teachers that teach kids the basics of chess, which improves their logical thinking and keep them off the streets.”

Gerhard

Marthinus van der Nest is a seasoned investment professional with a deep affinity for South Africa. He is committed to doing everything in his power to help make the country a self-sustaining success by making a positive impact on communities and the environment.  

“This journey is about contributing to the causes I am most passionate about – nature conservation and the opportunity of meaningful employment for the youth of South Africa.”  

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.

 

Through its conservation and social upliftment activities, the Foundation aligns with the following SDGs:

Subscribe to our newsletter