Gregory David Roberts named Zeitz Foundation Ambassador for Community

The Zeitz Foundation is grateful for the support of Gregory David Roberts, activist and author of the book Shantaram, for his acceptance as the Zeitz Foundation Ambassador for Community.

Says Roberts, "I have watched the Zeitz Foundation for Global Ecosphere Retreats develop from what I consider to be a noble idea to something that has become a practical and sustainable reality. At every stage I have been inspired by the personal vision of Jochen Zeitz, and excited by the contribution that this initiative makes to the better world that most of us want, and all of us desperately need. The new paradigm at the heart of these Global Ecosphere Retreats is an integrated part of the big paradigm shift towards a creative, courageous compassion for all living things in the biosphere—including our beautiful, damaged selves—and I support it passionately, with heart and mind."

Roberts will work alongside the Zeitz Foundation Specialist for Community, Auret Van Heerden, to help guide the Foundation's community-related activities. He is also an ambassador for the humanitarian organization Médicins Sans Frontièrs (Doctors Without Borders).

Zeitz Foundation Community Specialist, Auret van Heerden

The Zeitz Foundation welcomes Auret van Heerden as its Specialist in the 4Cs dimension of Community. He is the CEO and President of the Fair Labor Association and his expertise and leadership will contribute greatly to the Foundation's community development work.

van Heerden began fighting for workers' and communities' rights as a student in apartheid South Africa over 30 years ago. He has been a major force in the anti-sweatshop movement and his work on labor issues in China and elsewhere belie a history of brave and passionate dedication to enhancing livelihoods and ensuring fair work practices.

Upon his appointment, van Heerden said, “The Zeitz Foundation’s commitment to promoting fair labor and human rights standards as an integral component to their innovative model of sustainability is unique in the conservation world. I am delighted to be working with the Foundation as the FLA’s first participating non-profit company.” 

This unique collaboration with the FLA further underscores the Zeitz Foundation's dedication to pursuing fair labor standards in sustainable tourism and non-tourism industries worldwide.