This year’s guide has been carefully curated by Guest Editor, Kate Wilson, founder of @MulberryMongoose + @OTPYM Founder @MichaelaGuzy

Happy holidays, everyone! The OTPYM Traveling Team (our passionate + talented film crew) and I are excited to share the 13th edition of our annual Gifts That Give Back Guide for 2024! I am stoked to introduce you to a very special human, our guest editor who I met at the entrance of a national park in Zambia while traveling with my mum – Kate Wilson, founder of Mulberry Mongoose is the epitome of everything that we stand for editorially. We always promote “Experiences Not Stuff”, but IF you are going to give someone something, why not give a gift that gives back? 

Wishing you a happy + healthy holiday season,
@Michaela Guzy (OTPYM Founder) + the @OTPYM Traveling Team

I first met Michaela and her mum while they were traveling through Zambia and Malawi. I am so honored that all these years later, she asked me to guest curate the 2024 gift guide. Our ethos at Mulberry Mongoose is to always give back and empower local community which is editorially in line with OhThePeopleYouMeet’s commitment to regenerative travel –  leaving the PEOPLE, PLACES + PURPOSES travelers meet better than how you found them. With that, I hope you’ll check out our ethical jewelry (gift #1) and I’m excited to share other like minded brands that are very near and dear to my heart. Each of these gifts have an incredibly positive impact on their communities and our planet. Happy holidays + happy shopping!

Kate Wilson @MulberryMongoose (guest editor)

#1 HANDCRAFTED ETHICAL JEWELRY by Mulberry Mongoose

We are a team of rural Africans who transform brutal poachers’ snare traps into beautiful jewelry. We use unique materials, bought from local entrepreneurs, to create our designs and we donate to conservation with each sale. Our work empowers us whilst contributing to our wildlife heritage and community. We have proudly raised over $150,000 (and counting) for conservation. #BeautyFromBrutality

Shop the line now: HERE

#2 BEAUTY FULL MULTIVITAMIN SUPPLEMENT by D’Abril Aesthetic

OTPYM Founder swears by this premium supplement that is aimed to enhance both natural beauty and a healthy lifestyle. She first met the mother and daughter doctor duo while filming OTPYM’s Medical Tourism Series at The Corinthia Hotel in Lisbon, Portugal. This easy to pack powder is different from other products on the market, because it contains 12 vitamins and minerals. Beauty Full contributes to the balance of the intestinal microbiota, which is essential for digestion and the proper absorption of nutrients, helping to combat dysbiosis. Specific nutrients, such as collagen and minerals, strengthen joints and bones, providing structural support for the body. The antioxidants and vitamins present in the supplement promote skin health and strengthen the immune system. 

Recommended dose: 1 teaspoon a day, for a minimum period of 3-4 months. You can mix the powder with water, fruit or in dairy free smoothies. 1 container = 1 month supply.

For more information or to order HERE

#3 SPONSOR A K9 DOG TO SUPPORT WILDLIFE CONSERVATION in South Luangwa, Zambia

Conservation South Luangwa (CSL) works to protect 1.4 million hectares of largely intact wilderness in eastern Zambia – South Luangwa, home to iconic African species such as elephant, lion, leopard and wild dog. One of their most successful initiatives is the K9 Unit, a group of highly trained K9 dogs and their handlers who play a vital role in anti-poaching efforts, safeguarding Zambia’s wildlife from illegal hunting and trafficking. By choosing one of three K9 dog sponsorship packages, you will be directly contributing to their care, training, and the essential resources needed to keep them at the forefront of conservation efforts. This gift will not only support these dedicated teams but also help protect Zambia’s iconic species for future generations. 

For more information + to sponsor a dog, visit CSL’s website: HERE

#4 ECO SLUB DENIM SHORT TRENCH by Elaine Kim

This well traveled and fabulously dressed designer, created a polished trench coat crafted from soft eco denim – casual yet oh so elegant. It’s an extremely versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, worn day or night – perfect for traveling! 

USE code, MICHAELA15 for 15% off your order: HERE

#5 SPONSOR A RANGER ON THE FRONTLINE with The Thin Green Line Foundation

Thin Green Line is a global not-for-profit organisation that directly supports rangers on the frontline of conservation, enabling them to protect themselves, wildlife, communities, and the future of our living planet. This is achieved by providing effective training, vital equipment, and emergency support to rangers and their families, along with developing strong global networks for rangers and their communities. 

Donations to Thin Green Line can be dedicated in honor of a loved one this holiday season: HERE

#6 JEWELRY WITH SOUL by Soulful

SOUL Design is a beautiful African boutique and studio in the heart of the popular fishing village, Kalk Bay, in Cape Town.  They have an earthy, soulful essence to their designs that blends in beautifully to any environment – beach, city, outback…making them the ultimate holiday gifts for the travel lover…and what’s even better is that everything they make is handmade in Africa.  Their team of African women (predominantly single mothers) bead their pieces in their sea facing studio and they also collaborate with talented artisans around Africa to create other aspects of their designs.  They are keepsakes of modern African creativity, each telling a story about a different part of the continent. Michaela hasn’t taken her bracelet off since May 2023. 

Shop Soulful: HERE

#7 HATS FROM PERU by Andeana Hats

Andeana Hats are made from alpaca and bands that are sustainably handmade by Quechua artisans in Peru and hand woven palm leaf hats made by K’iche artisans in Guatemala. Each hat comes with a woven band with an ancient intention in the Quechua language that you select. Everything Andeana Hats do goes back into supporting these female artisans communities to preserve their craft and help lift them out of poverty. 

Check out Andeana Hats and use the discount code, ANDEANA20 for 20% off all hats on: HERE

#8 HAND PAINTED TEXTILES by Tribal Textiles

Tribal Textiles will always remain close to my heart; I worked there for my early years in the African bush. They are a home goods brand based in South Luangwa, Zambia and create stunning pieces whilst providing critical employment to talented artisans. They work to create sustainable impact through creativity and craftsmanship, going beyond fair wages, reinvesting each purchase in community strengthening initiatives, and supporting local wildlife conservation. One of Tribal Textile’s latest collections is now available in a festive colour palette in deep reds and greens, perfect for the holiday season. Drawing inspiration from the intricate beaded elephant masks traditionally crafted by the Bamileke people of Cameroon.

Shop now + get 15% off your first order: HERE

#9 BETTER WITH TIME with The Closet Santa Monica

What could be more sustainable than giving your clothes, shoes, handbags and jewelry a second life? Michaela has been shopping vintage since her teens and reselling since she moved to NYC post college. When she’s finished filming an OTPYM episode she’ll resell her carefully curated pieces at places like The Closet Santa Monica (they ship). In fact she just did a special travel edit collaboration this fall, check it out HERE. One of Michaela’s top travel tips when visiting a city is to research the best vintage shops – you might be able to pick up something locally designed, one of a kind, or a rare luxury find AND they are usually in the hippest parts of town. Michaela also just did her last drop for 2024, check out her jewelry collection + so much more: TheClosetTradingCo

Use code OTPYM25 in store or on Instagram for $25 USD off your purchase of $100 or more: HERE

#10 SUSTAINABLE + BESPOKE SAFARIS by The Odysseia Collection

When people travel they have a desire to discover the places they visit, endorse unique projects and empower remote communities; we feel the impact of this first hand at our workshop in Zambia. Our long-time supporters and clients, Odysseia, specialize in giving back to Africa whilst curating unforgettable, tailored experiences. Odysseia, craft beautiful, bespoke safaris that give back. Experience sleeping out under the stars or relaxing in your private plunge pool as elephants pass by directly in front of you. Whether you wish to lock eyes with a gorilla in Gabon, witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in East Africa, track wild dogs and lions on foot or spend a week looking for the leopards in the magnificent forests of the Zambezi Valley, Odysseia ensures the quality of the guided experience and hospitality is unrivalled, with a strong focus on ethical travel. Forget mass tourism and crowds, it’s all about treading lightly. 

Finding joy and awe in the wild is at the heart of their mission, and they will go out of their way to make sure you have the safari of a lifetime. Every safari directly supports rewilding projects in Zambia and Malawi, helping offset the carbon footprint of travel and regenerating wild spaces.

To learn more or book your safari:HERE

#11 ESSENTIAL SKINCARE from Africa

As an entrepreneur I have learned about the power of self-care the hard way. If you want to make an impact, you also have to take time for YOU. I love Essential Skincare to treat yourself, while investing back into the continent of Africa. 

Essential Skincare offers a range of products infused with African spirit. Through harnessing a powerhouse of plant-based oils and extracts from African species that have adapted to cope with the harshest conditions on the planet, a unique product range was born that could help your skin do the same. Africa’s incredible and wild plant diversity is the reason Essential Skincare exists.

Shop the Skincare line: HERE

#12 WOVEN BASKETS by Lusaka Collective

Mulberry Mongoose has been given incredible support by global stockists who expand our story of #BeautyFromBrutality through their own passion. One such client is the purposeful Lusaka Collective.  At the Collective Hands, they celebrate the artistry of Zambia’s finest makers. Each handcrafted item carries the spirit of collaboration, culture, and community. From skilled weavers to master metalworkers, the curated collection is a journey through Zambia’s vibrant traditions.

Founded by two passionate women, our friends Rosanne and Talitha, they are committed to sustainable, ethical craftsmanship that empowers local artisans, giving back to the communities they work with. Each piece they offer is more than a product—it’s a story of impactful makers, heritage, and heart.

Shop the collection: HERE

#13 CUSTOM HATS by @TheRealCrystalBirch

Milliner Extraordinaire, Crystal Birch, is a leading lady in the sartorial landscape of South Africa – and when it comes to hats or anything adorning the head, she is the go-to for the countries’ most creative characters + Michaela alike! 

You see – for a while there, it looked like hats were making a dramatic exit-stage-left, with elegant pillboxes, bowler hats and the like fading into obscurity as mere archival memories in the back of ouma’s closet.

For a brief moment it seemed like all we were left with was the beanie or peak cap – that is, until in a move of sheer vision, Crystal was called to turn her degree from Elizabeth Galloway Academy of Fashion right on its head (!) by preserving the art of millinery; while simultaneously re-introducing us to the inherent power that only the hat can hold for completing a look all the while employing a whole team of local women to help her keep the craft alive one custom hat at a time.

Shop her hats: HERE

#14 MANO A MANO COLLECTION by The Place of Wonders – Venice, Italy

The Place of Wonders is not a complete solution to the crisis affecting the dwindling numbers of artisans Italy has left, BUT the positive impact of the scholarships funded by the foundation and inbound tourism dollars is immediate. The benefit of educating a new generation of artisans will be felt long into the future as these newly minted makers embark on their careers. The Londra Palace Venezia is collaborating with Venezia da Vivere on a special Mano a Mano collection of limited-edition artisan pieces crafted by five of the Lagoon City’s most storied makers – including the textiles. Michaela couldn’t decide between the deliciously colorful textile purses with such a purpose behind them. 

Shop the 5 traditional wonders from Venice +  keep the Venetian crafts alive: HERE

#15 HEIRLOOM HANDWOVEN BLANKETS by Eden Found

If you love homeware and want to embrace the: “buy less, buy better” philosophy this holiday season, then Eden Found is ideal. Run by the power house that is Regan, her desire to expand and help fellow entrepreneurs is only surpassed by her innate creativity and vision. This is a small female empowerment enterprise, right in the heart of Zambia. Their design studio in Mazabuka is filled with wooden looms, talented female artisans and slow made, small batch goodness including homewares and décor.  Traditional weaving is an intricate and intensive process, producing a completely unique textile filled with love and goodness from the maker. Gift your special people an heirloom handwoven blanket they’ll treasure for a lifetime, like this gorgeous natural fibre Savannah Blanket.

Shop now: HERE

#16 ULTIMATE TRAVEL BAG by JetSet

JetSet Meds Travel Kits consists of physician-selected prescription meds designed to help you navigate urgent health concerns that may arise when traveling. 

These convenient kits were created by Dr. Eric Wolk and Dr. Brian Steixner.  Both avid explorers, they had been curating their own medical kits for their own personal travels, as well as for their patients, and saw the need in the market.

Coupled with access to Telemedicine, JetSet Meds provides additional peace of mind and convenience when abroad.

Use the code OTPYM10 for 10% off your JetSet Bag: HERE

#17  3 WIK CANDLES by Azimai

When living in harsh environments you form strong bonds. This is very true of my 13 years spent living in South Luangwa, Zambia. Dear friends of mine created a brand close to my heart, Azimai and it gave me much joy to watch it grow in both purpose and success. Crafted from Zambian beeswax and ethically sourced African oils, Azimai’s 3-wick candles fill your space with beautiful, unique scents while remaining true to their ethical values. Named for the inspiring women who lead their rural team in Zambia, Azimai is dedicated to upskilling and enhancing these women’s lives. A portion of every candle purchase supports WeForest’s work to regrow Zambia’s forests.

Get your candle now: HERE

#18 WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY by Shannon Wild

Exclusive wildlife photo prints by Shannon Wild, National Geographic Cinematographer and Founder & CEO of Wild In Africa. Capturing animals in their natural, untamed habitats, each image tells a unique story of the beauty and fragility of the natural world. Your purchase not only supports a professional dedicated to documenting the wild but also directly contributes to wildlife conservation, helping to protect the very animals showcased in these stunning prints. Explore the collection and give a gift that inspires wonder and makes a meaningful difference.

Get your print: HERE

#19 PERFECT CARRY ON LUGGAGE by HeyChesto

For those that swoon over old pictures of the golden age of travel with its stylish trunks and silk lined cases, HeyChesto is a new British luggage brand that offers a touch of bygone travel glamour for the contemporary traveler to stand out from the crowd. 

The HeyChesto collection has been inspired by iconic British destinations and come in four shades – The St Mawes in navy blue, The Cambridge in plum red (Michaela rocks regularly through airports around the world), The Padstow in cream and The Glastonbury in matte gold for a bit of rock and roll. 

Each chic HeyChesto suitcase is made by hand and built to last. The shell of the suitcase is made with ABS material and covered with PU which is a hard-wearing imitation vegan leather. HeyChesto was founded by Tanya Ames, a lifelong traveler and mother of four who was on the perpetual hunt for a practical and attractive suitcase to organize her and family’s clothes. 

Whether gallivanting for a weekend in the countryside or further afield, HeyChesto is a colourful, design-inspired luggage option for people of any age or gender. The question is where to go to first?

A HeyChesto suitcase is £395. Visit www.heychesto.com + use code: MICHAELA15 for 15% off your purchase.

#20 PRIVATE SAFARIS + FINE ART PRINTS by Chags Photography

Another great friend who cannot be ignored is Amish, or Chags as his friends call him. He is an acclaimed wildlife and conservation photographer, whose work has been celebrated in prestigious media outlets worldwide including National Geographic, GEO, World Photography Organisation and Earth.org.

His photography is a celebration of the untamed beauty in the wild; the lights and shadows that capture the soul of the natural world. Amish’s creative process is rooted in patience, a deep respect for nature, and a pursuit of the perfect moment where light, composition, and subject converge to tell a powerful story. He approaches the craft with both purpose and artistry, combining a passion for the natural world with a deep commitment to conservation. He is not merely focused on capturing stunning images but is driven by a greater mission to inspire, educate, and advocate for the preservation of wildlife and wild places. 

Get in touch with him directly regarding a private bespoke safari or his limited edition fine art prints. Amish is selective over the conservation organisations he works with and contributes 10-15% of gross proceeds to select and impactful conservation related organisations that he has personally vetted.

To book a safari or buy a print: HERE

#21 PLATFORM GALERI by Jacha Potgieter

Meet our dear friend and passionate conservationist Jacha Potgieter. International artist and environmental conservationist Jacha Potgieter is based in Betws-y-Coed, North Wales, and is a man with many strings to his artistic bow. Jacha’s portfolio already showcases paintings, photographs, etchings, sculpture and ceramics, and has now launched his soft furnishings range.

Jacha has worked on this series of auto-biographical collage prints which have now been transformed into textiles and home accessories including tablecloths, bandanas, tea towels, scarves and coasters. 

Jacha explains “The images I’ve used in each piece are a representation of the places I’ve traveled, people I’ve met and moments I’ve experienced throughout my life. I am a keen collector of textiles, and the fabrics I’ve used in these prints are ones I have spent years collecting on my travels.” 

Conservation is at the heart of Jacha’s projects and therefore, any products sold from this collection will see a portion of the proceeds split between Ape Action Africa and Orangutan Appeal UK. 

Contact Robyn or Zoe at Jacha’s gallery in North Wales- Platform Galeri- for any enquiries: HERE

#22 SEWN WITH LOVE by Project Luangwa

Project Luangwa is a non-governmental organization based in South Luangwa, Zambia. The mission is to empower communities through tourism. There are ten local, full-time employees in the Mfuwe artisan shop. On top of the local sewing team Project Luangwa supports other local artisans by connecting their skills to a wider market. The menstrual hygiene project ‘Ufulu’ provides reusable sanitary products to girls across the district, which are proudly hand-made by the local sewers. As well as making Ufulu pads, the sewing team makes a beautiful array of arts and crafts, sold in the shop – 100% of the proceeds going back into the projects.

Shop or donate now: HERE

#23 SUNGLASSES by Sheriff & Cherry

Founded in Croatia in 2010, Sheriff&Cherry has always been about challenging the stereotype, mixing a deep love for heritage with innovation. The sunglasses are inspired by the yachting lifestyle of the Adriatic coast, the sophistication of retro Italian motorboats as well as the surf punk scene. Smooth, bold, nostalgic, timeless, untameable. The open sea can be many beautiful things at once.  Produced by a family run business, manufactured with ethical practices, to the highest quality standards. Michaela first discovered Sheriff&Cherry while filming our award winning series in Croatia in 2023 and now owns two pairs!

Get your perfect pair: HERE

#24 ROSIE & RAVEN – An Interactive Animated Fairytale

When Rosie, a kind-hearted young fairy, gets stranded outside her world in a freezing snowstorm, she must enlist the help of Raven, a lonely little girl, to help her get home. But the only path back to Fairyworld is through a fully bloomed rose, and together, the duo must discover the secret that will coax one last late-blooming rose bud to open and allow for Rosie’s safe return to her world.
 
Rosie & Raven is a groundbreaking children’s book that combines the magic of storytelling with the benefits of mindfulness, using Augmented Reality to bring the illustrations to life in a way traditional books can’t. By viewing the activated pages through a smartphone or tablet, young readers and their parents can see characters, scenes, and hidden worlds pop off the page and move in real time. This interactive experience allows children to dive deeper into Rosie & Raven’s magical world, engaging their imaginations while gently introducing them to mindfulness practices.
 
While the book can be read and enjoyed in entirety without the use of any tech, the exercises and prompts are reinforced by short animations that help convey the deeper messages within the story. The app is free and takes a few seconds to download.

For more info + to preorder your hardcopy today: HERE

#25 CROATIAN WINE by Roxanich in Istra, Croatia

Croatian premium wine is one of the few remaining secrets of modern time. As our award winning episode, “OH THE PEOPLE YOU MEET with Michaela Guzy in Istra Croatia” explores, Croatian wine has not received the attention it deserves…YET. Thanks to distributors like Croatian Premium Wines, Mladen ROŽANIĆ and his six daughters are helping put Croatian wine, especially from Istra (Croatia’s Tuscany) on every wine drinker’s table. For a lucky few, you’ll be able to taste Roxanich wines in person at OTPYM’s film premiere in NYC on January 21, 2025!

To learn more, check out: www.Roxanich.com + order at: www.CroatianPremiumWine.com – please watch our Istra, Croatia episode trailer HERE

THANK YOU!

Thank you for supporting small businesses and the entrepreneurs behind them, local communities + for giving yourself some extra special self care this holiday season!

Pack a bag + journey on with us,
@MichaelaGuzy @MulberryMongoose + the @OTPYM Traveling Team