From November 2011 to March 2012, aspiring filmmaker Stuart Jefka and his lovely assistant Holly Dagnan, ventured from Costa Rica to Argentina, seeking out various animal, conservation projects within Central and South America. The goal: To live there, work there, and film it!

Overview

Two young adults from Austria and the United States, with a passion for international travel and wildlife conservation, sought out 5-6 volunteer projects. Our mission was to work for one year in South Korea, teaching English to young children at local public schools, in order to save approximately $20,000 for a 5-month trip, starting in San Jose, Costa Rica. With the money earned, along with a donation from a local entrepreneur in Seoul, we purchased the necessary equipment and embarked on our journey.

The projects included three in Costa Rica: Aviarios del Caribe, Rainsong, and ASVO Sea Turtle Project; two in Ecuador: Paseo de Los Monos and Merazonia; and one in Iquitos, Peru: The Amazonian Manatee Rescue Center. Our anticipated work with these six projects, the travel to and from, the excursions and sightseeing along the way to Buenos Aires, Argentina, and the documentation therein, would make up an 8-10 episode feature series.

Working with some of the most fascinating species found in this region of the world, we were able to gain valuable hands-on (or rather “paws-on”) experience as amateur volunteers. Highlighting our most memorable interactions with the animals, exposing details and facts about the regions, and showcasing a new way of travel for the viewer, that includes an element of adventure and philanthropy, we invite you to learn, participate, and enjoy…

Welcome to Paws-On!