By Emily Stull
As a 23-year-old living and working in Chicago, I never would’ve guessed I’d now consider myself a hunter. However, after returning from my second South African safari hunt in three years, I am so proud to do so! Both trips have been among the most incredible experiences of my life, and I hope to continue going on these amazing trips for years to come.
My dad, an active member of SCI for almost 15 years, was planning our trip with Matwetwe Safaris in 2021, when we heard about the SCI Foundation’s Bell Family Blue Bag Program. I was immediately intrigued by the program and excited about the opportunity to bring donations and rescue items to those in need. After researching the purpose and history of the program more, I knew it was something I wanted to participate in and we made plans to take blue bags as part of our trip. With the help of family and friends, we filled 5 blue bags with donations of children’s clothing, shoes, personal care items, medical supplies, toys and treats. Our gracious hosts, the Botha family (owners of Matwetwe Safaris) were supportive and eager to help us coordinate donating the blue bag items. With their help, we visited two orphanages, donating the blue bag items and even some of the meat from our harvested animals. Seeing the direct impact of the bags we brought, and the joy on the children’s faces, was one of the most gratifying experiences.
Because of this, when my dad mentioned going back to South Africa in May 2024, I was thrilled and couldn’t wait to do it all again! This time, we filled 7 blue bags with donations and the Bothas helped us coordinate our visits again. We brought donations to a rescue community for suffering families and a school, run by Annie Botha, serving many underprivileged and disabled children.
When we arrived at the school to drop off our donations, the children greeted us with a surprise singing performance they had been working on. It was one of the most heartwarming performances I’d ever seen. Their voices were beautiful and their giddy, kind, smiling faces were enough to make anyone smile! After they finished singing, we were able to greet and talk with many of the children. Annie is still sending me updates and fun photos of the children playing with toys and using materials we brought!z
I’m so grateful for these experiences and will cherish these memories for years to come. Seeing the direct impact of the SCI Foundation’s Bell Family Blue Bag Program on the children and families in South Africa has truly been one of the most meaningful and beautiful experiences of my life! If you’re planning to hunt abroad, I highly recommend participating in this program and paying it forward as a hunter. If you’re interested in taking blue bags on your next trip, contact SCIF staff and they will be more than happy to help you.
If you are interested in giving a Bell Blue Bag during your travels abroad or in your local community, contact Armando Gutierrez at Agutierrez@scifirstforhunter.org
