The Gqeberha branch of SANCCOB is bringing the community together in the name of raising funds for penguins; are you ready to get plodding?
Gqeberha, South Africa (08 July 2025) – On 3 August 2025, locals and visitors alike will lace up their walking shoes for Plod with a Purpose, a joyful, community-driven 5km walk through nature, in support of one of South Africa’s most beloved and threatened seabirds: the African Penguin.
Hosted by For the Love of Nature in collaboration with SANCCOB (the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds), this charity event aims to raise urgent funds and awareness for the critically endangered African Penguin. With numbers plummeting and projections warning that the species could be extinct by 2035 without intervention.
The African Penguin has long captured the hearts of Port Elizabethans. Charismatic, curious, and endlessly charming, these birds are more than just a symbol of the region’s biodiversity; they are part of our natural identity. But with habitat loss, dwindling fish stocks, oil spills, and climate change taking their toll, their survival hangs in the balance.
And that’s exactly what Plod with a Purpose invites you to do.
Starting and ending at SANCCOB Gqeberha, the 5km walk winds through scenic spaces before returning for a special behind-the-scenes tour of SANCCOB’s seabird rehabilitation centre. Along the way, participants will connect with local hiking clubs, conservation champions, and fellow feather-loving citizens, all united by one shared goal: giving the African Penguin a fighting chance.
All proceeds from the event will go directly to SANCCOB Port Elizabeth, supporting the vital work they do to rescue, rehabilitate and release seabirds back into the wild.
There’s also an opportunity to wear your heart on your sleeve too; by purchasing a limited-edition event T-shirt, created by celebrated local artist Tori Stowe and her son Noah. Funds raised from T-shirt sales will further support SANCCOB’s mission. (Just be sure to order yours before 28 July at 17:00!). You can get your tickets for the charity event here.
And for those looking for a little extra incentive? There are amazing spot prizes up for grabs on the day.
So, whether you’re a local nature-lover, a family looking for a meaningful outing, or simply someone who wants to do good while getting some fresh air, Plod with a Purpose is your chance to take a small step with a big impact.
As the organisers say: “Come on South Africa, show us your moves and show us you care. Do the Penguin Plod, and help us protect these feathered friends before it’s too late.”
And the best part is, if plodding isn’t your thing, you can have fun by doing the “Penguin Plod”, a fun dance that has penguins in front of the heart. Take a look below:
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