The Fashionable Frequent Flyers

A vacation at Segera is no ordinary vacation, and that becomes apparent pretty quickly after arriving at the property. During our welcome tour, we learned about Segera’s 4Cs ethos: Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce. It is Segera’s commitment to these four principles that drive its entire operation and ensure sustainability in the long run.

First, Conservation. We were fortunate enough to get the opportunity to learn how Segera is committed to the conservation of plant and animal species within the conservancy. We visited the Tree of Life project site where we learned about Segera’s ambitious project to plant 1 million new trees in the next 10 years in the conservancy. At the site, Kimani, our guide, explained to us the process of how the plants are grown in a nursery until they are ready for planting in the conservancy. The weather in Laikipia is relatively unpredictable and harsh; indeed, not too long ago it is our understanding that the land was barren until revived through such efforts. This increase in plant life will likely result in the animal species further thriving in this area. Separately, we learned about the anti-poaching efforts of the ranger units in the conservancy and witnessed a dog demo, where we saw how their trained hounds (with almost 100% accuracy) track down poachers. Poaching incidents in the conservancy have decreased dramatically because of the work of these units. In addition, Segera also worked with the rangers to establish an all-female ranger unit, further contributing to its projects focused on the empowerment of women in the community. On the eco front, we got a behind-the-scenes look at the retreat’s power and water systems. We learned that the retreat is 100% solar powered and we also learned that the retreat recycles its water. Every aspect of Segera leaves the lightest footprint possible. This also taught us to be extremely mindful of the power and water we use daily.

Second, Community. Segera understands that contributing and giving back to the community around it helps ensure that the retreat thrives. As such, over 90% of Segera’s staff is comprised of individuals from the nearby communities, all of whom are trained on-site and have priority for promotions should they wish to change departments. Indeed, our guide, Ngimat, is emblematic of Segera’s commitment to the community. Ngimat grew up in the nearby community and joined Segera as a bar back. He then worked in different departments from housekeeping to waitstaff, until ultimately becoming a guide. In addition, Segera has also helped support the local communities and programs that are aimed at improving social accountability and infrastructure, as well as promoting community relations.

Third, Culture. We had the pleasure of visiting the Satubo beaders. We were so blessed to be in the presence of these women! Satubo (an acronym for Samburu, Turkana, and Borana) is a name created by 3 communities in Northern Kenya. The group is made up of women from the three tribes who decided to band together to put an end to the tribal disputes and bring peace to the communities. They were also driven by a desire to improve the lives of women in the communities as well as the lives of children. They did so by creating their own streams of commerce, primarily beading, and through that, purchased land, educated the women and girls, and created a self-sustained community. 70% of the profits from their beading go directly to the group, while the remaining 30% is reinvested into the beading and other community needs. I was fortunate enough to get the opportunity to learn how to bead a necklace, and I remain grateful for the time these incredible women took to welcome me into their space, where all the magic happens!

Additionally, art is woven deep into the heart of Segera. Indeed, in addition to the decor, items in Segera’s gift shop include the beautiful beaded work of the Satubo women. Not to mention, you’ll find African artwork spread out throughout the retreat, including their very own in-house art museum! It’s an art walk from the plane to your villa! What spoke to us the most was how they have a space dedicated to Kenyan creatives whom they host. As creatives, we felt extremely touched by Segera’s commitment to supporting Kenyan talent.

Lastly, Commerce. In addition to the retreat as a tourist destination, Segera is involved in other commercial initiatives. For instance, Segera produces some of the sweetest honey we’ve ever tasted. One of my biggest regrets is forgetting to grab a jar of Segera honey from the gift shop before we left. Their commercial beekeeping initiative helps the environment and aids as an alternative source of revenue to Segera and local communities.

By the time our stay was over, everything came back full circle. Through our wonderful experience, activities, and observing behind the scenes, we had a deeper understanding of the 4Cs and how they tied to Segera. This made for an enhanced vacation experience — luxury and sustainable/eco-promotional tourism.