Charles Botha is a semi-retired businessman and, although he has always been interested in plants and wildlife, his only qualification in this field is an LBE (Learned By Experience). He is past chairman of the KwaZulu-Natal Region of the Wildlife and Environment Society of SA, and a life member of both this organisation and the Botanical Society of SA as well as a member of the Lepidopterists’ Society of Africa.

Julia Botha holds BPharm and PhD degrees and is a Professor of Pharmacology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She is past Chairperson of the University’s Environmental Committee.

Both Charles and Julia are longstanding members of BirdLife SA. Two of their books have won prizes. In recognition of their work they received the President’s Special Award from the Wildlife and Environment Society in 2003. They are the founders of the Botanical Education Trust which funds research and education related to indigenous flora