To celebrate the launch of our Conservation Christmas Pop-up at LOVE BRAND & Co. in partnership with The Aspinall Foundation, Chantecaille and Tada & Toy, we meet the founders, starting with the incredible Sylvie Chantecaille.
When I first went to Africa, it was to meet Dame Daphne Sheldrick. I travelled all the way there just to see her. It opened my heart and my eyes more than I ever expected — to conservation, to the magnificent elephants, and to this woman who was saving animals. My heart grew in Africa — I fell in love with the elephants, and with Daphne’s generosity and humble spirit. Her understanding of animals was and still is unmatched.
What is your most memorable moment with wildlife?
During a trip to Rwanda, I laid down on the grass next to a silverback gorilla. I was resting and the silverback was lying right next to me. I took a branch and pretended to chew on it, and the gorilla did the exact same thing — mimicking me. We rested under the canopy shade together for a while. I took a photo of that moment on my phone, which went on the compact for our Gorilla Eye Palette.
What’s your idea of a perfect family holiday?
Near the water. For me, the best holiday I have ever had was one that started in Kenya on New Year's Eve. We went from being in the bush with elephants to flying right next to Mount Kilimanjaro and then touching down near the Indian Ocean for a few days on the beach and in that incredible water — right next to a jungle.
What does sustainability mean to you?
Preserving the balance.
If you had to choose, where is your favourite place on earth?
Kenya.
Looking back on your successes what piece of advice would you share?
Be bold, be truthful, and keep at it.
To travel is to…
Spread your wings.
One thing about yourself we don’t know?
My mother was once utterly terrified when she discovered me sitting in her garden, gently petting a giant tarantula. I couldn’t believe how magnificent its fur was and how beautifully he crawled and climbed around. I have always loved all creatures, big and small, and have always had a fascination and respect for animals rather than fear.
Find us at the LOVE BRAND & Co. Christmas Conservation Pop-up with Chantecaille.
Images courtesy of Chantecaille and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
