Today we’d like to introduce you to Devon Heuer.
Hi Devon, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Thanks — it’s great to be here. I grew up in Tanzania, where wildlife was part of everyday life. Safaris weren’t a bucket-list item — they were weekend family trips, school field trips, etc. That early exposure to nature deeply influenced me, and to this day I’ve been on close to 300 safaris.
I was fortunate to receive an academic scholarship to a university in the U.S., which opened up a whole new world. Later, I moved to SILICON VALLEY AND built a career in tech – I was the founder of three technology companies over a 19 year period. But something always tugged at me — a longing for the land that shaped me. Eventually, I realized that I didn’t just want to visit Africa. I wanted to give back to it.
That’s how Fair Trade Safaris was born — a company where travelers experience the magic of Africa, and 100% of the profits are channelled into wildlife conservation, poverty alleviation, and community development. It’s a full-circle story: from the savannahs of Tanzania to the boardrooms of Silicon Valley… and back again, with purpose.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not smooth — but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Walking away from an entrepreneurial career path in tech to build a purpose-driven safari company raised more than a few questions. Especially one that gives 100% of profits away. It’s not exactly a conventional business model.
One of the biggest challenges was showing people that luxury and ethics aren’t mutually exclusive — that you can have an incredible five-star experience while supporting conservation and serving vulnerable communities. Another balance that i needed to strike was starting something so deeply tied to personal values and purpose, while also having a sense of urgency. these initiatives require patience, trust, and a whole lot of resilience.
But the challenges taught me what no classroom ever could. I’ve learned that authenticity builds real connection, and that people are hungry for experiences that matter. They just need someone to help make that accessible.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We curate transformative experiences across Africa — to destinations like Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, and more. But what truly sets us apart is that 100% of our profits go to thoroughly vetted nonprofits focused on wildlife conservation, community empowerment, and education.
We’re not just in the travel industry — we’re in the transformation business. Every safari helps fund anti-poaching efforts, support girls’ education, build clean water systems, and create economic opportunities for local guides, conservationists, and artisans.
And we believe in travel that’s welcoming to everyone. We strive to create safe, respectful spaces where all travelersfeel valued — because exploring the world and connecting with the wild should be rooted in connection, not exclusion.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Happiness, for me, is underpinned by purpose. It’s waking up and knowing that what I’m doing matters beyond me. It’s when a traveler tells us that their safari reconnected them to something sacred. Or when we get updates from a local nonprofit about a new borehole, school, or rhino calf we helped protect.
But it’s also the quiet stuff — sunrise in the bush, stories around a campfire, moments of connection that remind us we’re all part of something bigger.
Pricing:
- We believe luxury doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense. Our safaris are fully customizable — we work directly with clients to create bespoke itineraries that fit their budget and travel goals, from ultra-luxe private reserves to meaningful mid-range adventures. But what sets us apart is this: no matter the price point, 100% of our profits go to conservation and community projects. You’re not just booking a trip — you’re funding real impact.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@fairtradesafaris.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fairtradesafaris/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fairtradesafaris
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fairtradesafaris
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fair_Trd_Safari
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpPuxE-rV-o
- Soundcloud: https://co.pinterest.com/fairtradesafaris/
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/313xyzsynlmciqp4olt6e4n5ygp4
- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/fair.trade.safaris;
