By Erin Martin
A Heartfelt Beginning: The Origin of International Flower Day
International Flower Day began in 2013 in the lush landscapes of Tasmania, when Rohan and Brooke Levy, a father-daughter duo, received a surprise bouquet of flowers from a stranger. Touched by this unexpected act of kindness, they were inspired to give back by sharing flowers with nearly 300 people on that same day, each year. Their gesture, simple yet powerful, became a catalyst for a movement that celebrates nature, kindness, and the joy that flowers bring into our lives.
Celebrating Nature at Lukhanyo Creche
In honor of International Flower Day, the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve’s Environmental Awareness team, Marinda and Erin, embarked on a heart-warming outreach to Lukhanyo Creche. The team aimed to cultivate a connection to the environment which they can nurture towards conservation mindsets in the future. The event was filled with educational and hands-on activities designed to inspire a love for nature.

Planting Seeds of Hope: A Day of Environmental Connection
The morning kicked off with a hands-on planting activity. Together with the children, we carefully planted spekboom, connecting with the earth as we placed the roots into the soil. Following the tree planting, the children eagerly joined in to plant vibrant flowers, each bloom a beautiful reminder of new beginnings and hope.
Turning Trash into Treasure: Crafting Flower Stamps from Toilet Rolls
One of the day’s most inventive activities involved turning something as simple as a toilet roll into a flower stamp to create beautiful flowers. It was a wonderful reminder that even the most ordinary objects can be transformed with a little imagination. The children, full of energy and enthusiasm, eagerly embraced the craft and the magic of creativity.
The Pure Joy of Creation: A Day of Learning and Growing Together
The day was filled with joy. As the children looked at their completed crafts and planted flowers, their faces lit up with pride and happiness. It was in these moments of creation, connection, and shared experience, that the essence of International Flower Day shone brightest. It wasn’t just about planting flowers or making crafts; it was about growing together, learning from one another, and discovering the joy that comes from connecting with nature and being creative.
International Flower Day is a reminder of the beauty that exists all around us, whether in the form of flowers, trees, or the bonds we create with others.











