Better World Video Awards: Tebogo

In this short film, learn more about the devastating impact of South Africa’s illegal succulent trade, and the work being done to combat it

In South Africa’s arid landscapes, rare succulents – some of which have survived the harshest of conditions on the planet for thousands of years – are vanishing into a lucrative black market.

Tebogo Mawela, a passionate young conservationist, works against the odds to protect her natural heritage — a story of perseverance and hope.

Check out our other Better World Video Award entrants…

Since 2019, authorities in South Africa have seized more than one million illegally-harvested succulent plants, representing more than 650 species. In one seizure, 40,000 plants were found.

Corruption is involved, as well as buyers from consumer countries around the world. Many locals in South Africa are recruited to illegally harvest, and are paid in cash or drugs. In turn, both plants and people are being severely affected by the trade.

Many factors combine to produce difficult challenges for those combating the illegal succulent trade in South Africa. These include corruption, a lack of resources for law enforcement and the multitude of species needing to be protected across various areas of the nation.

The film celebrates resilience, female empowerment, and demonstrates how we can all, working together , safeguard the planet and inspire change.

Tebogo has been entered into the individual category of the 2025 Better World Video Awards. Find out more about how you can enter here. The individual category prize this year is a 7-night stay in Chiang Mai, courtesy of our partner, Aggressor Adventures; while our group winner will receive a £3,000 advertising package with Geographical.