Wakaya is excited to announce the launch of our first educational children’s book, Trees for Life, coming in January 2025. This vibrant and engaging book marks the beginning of Wakaya’s environmental education program, a cornerstone of our mission to inspire future generations to care for the environment.
Written by Wakaya’s founder, Tania Paschen, and beautifully illustrated by Angolan artist and graphic designer Tche Gourgel, Trees for Life brings conservation to life through the story of Oscar, Isabel, and their wise grandfather. The book has been expertly translated into Portuguese by Aguinaldo Vasco da Piedade Dos Santos, ensuring accessibility for children across Angola.
The story follows Oscar and Isabel as they explore the world of trees with their grandfather, a man who deeply understands and cherishes the role of trees in our environment. Through his eyes, the children learn about the vital contributions trees make, from providing shade, oxygen, and fruit to supporting diverse bird and wildlife species.
The adventure takes an unexpected turn when Oscar’s homework is stolen by a mischievous monkey, prompting their grandfather to reflect on the changes he’s witnessed as trees have been cut down over the years. The narrative highlights the negative impacts of deforestation, encouraging young readers to think critically about conservation.
“It’s a fun and colourful entrée point for us to start engagement around conservation and nature with children and, through them, their families,” says author Tania Paschen. “The book includes exercises and quizzes to ensure the messages are understood and can even be performed as a play, allowing children to share these lessons with their communities.”
Trees for Life isn’t just a story—it’s part of a broader initiative to inspire action. The book ties directly into Wakaya’s Community Tree Nursery project, helping to contextualize the project and foster a sense of ownership among children. By educating young minds about the importance of trees, Wakaya aims to empower the next generation to take an active role in protecting and nurturing their environment.
Education is at the heart of Wakaya’s mission, and Trees for Life is a key step in building environmental awareness at the grassroots level. By reaching children and families through storytelling, Wakaya is planting the seeds of conservation in a way that is accessible, engaging, and impactful.
The launch of Trees for Life will be accompanied by activities to introduce the book to schools and communities, including storytelling sessions, workshops, and performances of the story as a play.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting initiative. Together, we can inspire a love for nature and a commitment to conservation in the hearts of young Angolans.
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