LeoVegas Group has proudly supported The Lions Foundation since 2017, when we adopted two lions (Bruno and Omar), who were rescued by Stichting Leeuw and now live comfortably at the foundation in South Africa. We continue to support their wellbeing, funding their care and sending ambassadors from across the Group to join the team onsite for a true “mud, sweat, and muck” experience!
What made you apply for the LeoInitiative trip this year?
“I’d heard great things about LeoInitiative from colleagues who’d taken part before, and their stories always stuck with me. It’s not often you get the chance to step out of your usual role and contribute to something as meaningful as wildlife conservation. Working directly with animals, seeing the impact of our partnership with The Lions Foundation, and visiting a part of the world I’d never been to felt like an opportunity I couldn’t miss.”
Jack Wilkinson, Senior Customer Support Analyst & LeoInitiative Ambassador
What kind of work did you take part in at The Lions Foundation?
“A bit of everything, really. It was very hands-on, which I loved. We helped make sure the animals, from lions to meerkats, were fed, hydrated, and had clean, safe environments. Feeding time was definitely a highlight; there’s something very memorable about delivering breakfast to a lion.
We also supported bigger projects around the sanctuary. One of them was building a wooden platform that gives the lions a higher vantage point to survey their territory. Seeing them climb up and use something you helped build is a pretty cool feeling.”
Was there a specific moment that left a lasting impression on you?
“Hearing the past stories of the animals was tough but important. Omar and Bruno, LeoVegas Group’s adopted lions, spent years in small cages without proper shelter, and you can still see signs of the stress they went through.
Seeing where they are now was incredible. They’re confident, active, and really thriving in a safe, natural space. Standing there and hearing their roar echo across the sanctuary was a really special experience. It really hits home why this work matters (and how loud a lion’s roar actually is!).”
How has this experience influenced your perspective on wildlife conservation and what has it taught you?
“It opened my eyes to how much work goes into protecting wildlife, far more than you see from the outside. Conservation doesn’t stop when the animals are rescued; it’s daily dedication from a team that genuinely cares. You leave with a new appreciation for the people who do this work every single day.
It also reminded me how connected everything is. Supporting wildlife doesn’t just help individual animals, it supports ecosystems and long-term sustainability. I’m proud that LeoVegas Group continues to back The Lions Foundation, and I’m glad I got to see the impact of that support firsthand.”
Would you encourage other employees to apply for LeoInitiative next year, and if so, why?
“Definitely! It’s not a holiday, and you’ll definitely be getting stuck in, but that’s what makes it so rewarding. You’ll learn a lot, contribute to something meaningful, and come back with a completely new perspective.”