For the past few years, Bushveld Mosaic has had the privilege of presenting our Saturday modules at Freedom Park in Pretoria — a venue that is not only world-class, but deeply meaningful to South Africa’s story. As a side note, if you haven’t yet visited Freedom Park, you’re missing out on one of the country’s most special national landmarks. And if you haven’t taken visiting friends or international guests there, they’re missing out too.
Perched on Salvokop Hill and overlooking the city, Freedom Park is both a heritage site and a place of reflection. The park’s indigenous gardens, walking paths, and panoramic views create a rare space where history and nature meet.
Our ongoing use of this exceptional venue is made possible through the generous support of Tienie Van de Merwe (a past Bushveld Mosaic student) and his wife, Sunet (a current Honorary Officer and also a past BM student). Their continued involvement has helped build a relationship that we value enormously.
When Freedom Park’s CEO, Dr Jane Mufamadi, mentioned that it would be wonderful if more of the trees on the site were clearly identified, Bushveld Mosaic immediately saw an opportunity. It was a practical way to give something back in appreciation for the use of such outstanding facilities, while also creating a meaningful learning experience for visitors.
To bring this idea to life, we partnered with South African Gallery of Legends, Tienie’s company, and Bushveld Mosaic’s sponsor at Freedom Park. With the help of Lauren L’Ange, an initial set of 15 tree identification tags were researched, produced, and then installed during our Mammals lecture on Saturday, 17 January.
Tree tagging not only adds to the visitor experience and encourages a deeper connection with the landscape, but speaks directly to what Bushveld Mosaic is about — teaching for the curious, the passionate, the serious-but-fun nature lover who wants to understand the world around them and enjoy the journey while doing so. It also fits perfectly with Freedom Park’s spirit of learning, reflection, and connection.
We’re proud to be part of this initiative and grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.
If you’d like to, learn about our courses, or share in our passion for understanding the natural world, go to contacts and send us an email.
