Tanya van Rees’ journey has seamlessly woven together her passion for sustainability, education, and creativity into a brand that nurtures not only the environment but also the minds of young learners.
Tanya, the founder of Authentic Roots, has embarked on a remarkable mission to inspire positive change through her eco-conscious products and educational initiatives.
Her story begins in Welkom, a town known for its traffic circles. However, her most cherished memories were formed on the KwaZulu Natal coastline where she spent weekends with friends, basking in the sun and saltwater. Her zest for adventure led her to work on a cruise liner at the age of 19 and later to live in the picturesque Italian town of Sorrento.
It was in Sorrento that Tanya’s love for growing her own food and cooking with fresh produce blossomed. Living in close proximity to a thriving vegetable garden nurtured by an elderly woman, ignited her passion for sustainable living.
Rooted in passion
In the realm of conscious entrepreneurship, Authentic Roots emerged as a beacon of purpose-driven innovation. The initiative was born four and a half years ago, specialising in crafting bespoke gifts that seamlessly paired eco-consciousness with a love for animals.
However, it swiftly evolved into a force of change, channelling its energies towards a pressing need in South Africa – education and sustainable food cultivation.
Tanya explained, ‘Authentic Roots encapsulates all that I am passionate about and value the most in life. A rich fusion of education, health, plant-based living, creativity, and empowerment defines the essence of this remarkable venture.
‘This ethos serves as my guiding star in an endeavour to bring meaningful change.’
With the grace of a storyteller, Authentic Roots designs learning resources that inspire children to nurture their connection with nature and embark on a journey of cultivating their own sustenance.
Eco-conscious luxury
In a world where sustainability meets style, Tanya introduced bespoke gifts crafted from an innovative material – pineapple leather. This eco-friendly alternative to leather swiftly found its way into a myriad of creations, from recycled tote bags to journals and laptop sleeves.
The genesis of an extraordinary idea often lies in the fusion of inspiration and passion. Such was the case with Authentic Roots’ plantable children’s storybooks.
Combining the enchantment of storytelling with the practicality of sustainability, these storybooks are embedded with lettuce or tomato seeds in their handmade recycled paper covers thus extending its reach into the hearts and minds of young readers, promoting both learning and environmental stewardship.
Teaching food growth
In a world increasingly disconnected from the origins of sustenance, Tanya is of the opinion that teaching children about food cultivation, should be a cornerstone of education.
Beyond fostering healthier food choices, this practice nurtures life skills, enhances fine motor skills, and cultivates a connection with nature. ‘By partnering with early childhood development centres, we empower children to embark on a journey of self-sufficiency, honing skills that will serve them well into the future. We also collaborate with local sewing groups which uplift communities and create opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.
‘Furthermore, the brand’s collaboration with Growing Paper in Cape Town not only produces remarkable plantable storybooks but also empowers women by providing meaningful employment.’
A leap of faith
Tanya’s path to establishing Authentic Roots was laden with challenges that ultimately fueled her determination. The corporate world, though financially rewarding, left her yearning for a more meaningful existence.
She knew there was more to life than board meetings and spreadsheets. Her restless spirit led her to embark on a journey of self-discovery and learning. She studied permaculture, became a qualified yoga teacher, and delved into social entrepreneurship through Gordons Institute of Business Science.
Tanya’s passion for positive change was evident, even as she volunteered at NPOs and furthered her knowledge.
‘The turning point was when I was running someone else’s business, managing 40 staff members and solely responsible for growing the business. I was extremely stressed to the point that it affected my physical health and then sadly I suddenly lost my mom and then a month later my dad died.
‘That shook my world. I realised just how short life was and I had to start living my life with more meaning, so I resigned. I didn’t have a business plan nor financial backing to start an enterprise, but I knew it was time to take that leap of faith and put all the skills that I had acquired to the task.’
Planting seeds of change
Authentic Roots blossomed from Tanya’s desire to instil environmental consciousness and patience in the hearts of young readers. The ingenious concept of plantable children’s storybooks caught on, captivating children’s imaginations while teaching them about nature and the art of nurturing life.
Each book contains paper embedded with edible plant seeds, transforming reading into an interactive experience of wonder and discovery. Tanya’s heartwarming stories, combined with the enchanting concept of growing their own plants, encourage children to care for the environment and practice patience.
Teachers have reported inspiring outcomes, as students engage with the stories, characters, and the tangible process of planting and growing.
‘We plan to launch a participatory school-based food garden and education programme by teaching underprivileged schools to create and sustain their own food gardens through composting, and aim to tackle food security and nutritional issues at their roots.’
A glimpse into Tanya’s world
Tanya, a woman of boundless energy and zest for life, invites us to step into her world, where family, fur babies, delightful hangouts, and fulfilling hobbies paint a portrait of a life well-lived.
Tanya shares her home with her beloved husband, Warren, a pillar of strength and support. Their fur baby, Rose, a rescued cat, graces their lives with her gentle presence.
Tanya’s affinity for culinary delights and the great outdoors finds a perfect match in her favourite hangouts. Leafy Greens, a sanctuary of nourishment nestled in nature’s embrace, tantalises her taste buds with delectable, wholesome fare.
Jodiva Farm, another cherished spot, offers a picturesque escape from the everyday hustle. Here, Tanya’s heart finds solace amid rows of thriving produce, where she personally selects ingredients for the week ahead. Leisurely lunches at Molitva, accompanied by laughter and a glass of wine shared with friends, complete the perfect outing.
Tanya’s life is an embodiment of balance. On Mondays she imparts the gift of yoga, setting the tone for the week by nurturing her own mental well-being and guiding others on their journeys to self-discovery.
Sunday afternoons Tanya indulges in a rejuvenating steam session at the gym and she delves into her creative work and ideas on a lounger in her garden.
Tanya’s pursuit of happiness takes her to thrift shops, where the thrill of discovery combines with the joy of giving preloved treasures a new home. A testament to her character, these moments mirror her philosophy that true value lies not only in what we acquire but in how we contribute to the world around us.
Staying connected
Individuals and organisations who resonate with Tanya’s mission can reach out directly to her via email at [email protected] or visit the website www.authenticroots.co.za.
Stay updated by following their Instagram or Facebook pages, using the hashtag #authenticrootssa.
Text: LUCCIA MASHEL. Photo: DESNAY PETERSON.
