Raising funds for Chipangali

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LONDON - Two Zimbabwean brothers, Gary and Derek Chappell, have created an online shop called ZimStyle (www.ZimStyle.com) selling fashionable clothing and gifts with a difference for Zimbabweans living worldwide. Part of all proceeds from the sale of all products goes to the Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage in Bulawayo.
Chipangali is a sanctuary for sick, injured and orphaned, set up in 1973 by Vivian and Paddy Wilson, is a charity and not a zoo or a profit-making business. It has been featured in countless documentaries and is world-renowned for its pioneering work and is famed as one of Africa’s largest and most successful wildlife rehabilitation and breeding centres.
"We both visited Chipangali a number of years ago, and were really impressed and amazed by the wonderful work they do. With the current economic situation in Zimbabwe we decided to open an Internet online clothes shop called ZimStyle. You simply browse our website, purchase clothes and gifts, and receive your purchase in the post a few days later," said the brothers.
Although shipping is not currently available to Africa, customers could still make a purchase and then forward it to their families or friends, or hand deliver when they next visit Zimbabwe.
At Chipangali one can visit The Diana, Princess of Wales, Children's Conservation Education Centre which was developed a few years ago in memory of Princess Diana who was, before her tragic death, the Patron of the Chipangali Wildlife Trust. Hundreds of school children of all ages have visited the centre since its inception, and lectures are given on all aspects of wildlife and conservation. Other interesting facilities include an aquarium of local Zimbabwe fish, several aviaries, a children’s play area, a tropical area for blue duikers, a tea garden, herb garden, and a domestic animal farmyard.
There is also a Chipangali Research Team which continues to monitor the movement and home range of radio collared leopards and cheetah in Hwange and Matopos National Parks.
Chipangali also operates a volunteer programme. On a four-week placement, three weeks will be spent at the orphanage itself and one week at either Hwange or Matopos National Park where they conduct their leopard and cheetah research. Own correspondent