After 6 amazing years, we are closing our doors.
A Huge Thank You.
We published our first magazine in the Autumn of 2019. It’s been almost 6 years of the utmost creativity and hard work, and the end result has been 3 published magazines and a beautiful hardback book. Having something tangible - that hundreds of people have purchased, and now have sitting at home on their very own coffee table - is a feeling like no other. Having a physical book that I can show my children and grandchildren one day is something I will always be proud of. But it’s not just the end result that’s been special, but rather the journey of Nyayo that has been the real highlight.
Over the 6 years, I have opened my eyes and ears to the depths of the safari world and conservation. I’ve worked and interviewed a huge number of guides, conservationists, safari camps and managers, and really take the time to understand the complex challenges and strengths that national parks and the future of our wildlife faces today.
Across 4 books, I hope these personal and raw stories have helped transcend barriers and challenge convention to uplift Africa, fiercely protect our wildlife and have placed some part in the narrative of the African Safari.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to every single person that’s been involved in Nyayo. From the guides on the ground in Africa’s parks, to the designers working on our beautifully-aesthetic books. From my family supporting me during stressful deadlines, to the safari camps hosting me for adventures across the continent.
And last but not least, thank you to every single customer, supporter and ‘fan’ of Nyayo. We sold out of magazines time and time again, and my heart burst with pride almost each time. We truly couldn’t have embarked on this journey without you. I am excited for my next chapter ahead, and will always look back at the fond adventures of my Nyayo journey.
With Love,
Gemma xx
“This incredible coffee book shines a light on the inspirational African women who are pushing boundaries and breaking stereotypes every single day in their fields.
Women can be rangers. Women can be guides. Women can be wildlife vets & conservationists. Women can be wildlife photographers.”
What does Nyayo mean?
The word Nyayo in Swahili (the language most commonly spoken in East Africa), translates to footprints. To the average traveller, the majority of footprints probably go unnoticed, but to a safari guide, the faintest footprint on a dusty path is spotted immediately and analysed meticulously. Footprints are not only physical. Our emotional footprint is what we contribute psychologically and socially to one another. No matter how long you spend with your safari guide, their emotional footprint – often imbued with kindness, passion and courtesy – will undoubtedly leave its mark on your heart.
