Awakening the Human Spirit

http://www.pointdiscoverycentre.com

The campaign is for the raising of funds for the development of the Point Discovery Centre at Mossel Bay to tell the story of the archaeological and related discoveries at Cave PP13B where important evidence of human habitation dating back 164 000 years, as well as the earliest evidence to date of the development of modern human behaviour, was uncovered.

The discoveries also carry important lessons for present-day humans and their descendants, who are once more facing the very real prospect of extinction as our behaviour continues to cause untold damage to the planet.

The Southern Cape shore, where Mossel Bay is located, has a confluence of diversity of natural resources unrivalled elsewhere in the world and scientific evidence suggests the rich confluence of resources allowed humans to survive here during harsh climate cycles, including extended periods when the world was locked in glacials, and the world human population may have dwindled to perhaps a few hundred individuals.It may even be the case that all humanity traces it roots back to this special place because of these unique environmental characteristics.

The dynamic interplay between changing land, sea, and the many types of people whose lives have been inter-twined here through the ages is rarely told to the public in an effective and engaging manner, and Point Discovery Centre aims to do just that.

The process is managed by Point Discovery Centre NPC, an autonomous registered non-profit company and registered public benefit organisation, which is operated by volunteers.

This activity-based centre will communicate and study the connections between the land, sea, and people in unique ways through the use of cutting-edge computer 3D technology, hands-on displays and activities for children and adults alike. It will be a gathering location to celebrate the land and sea – it will help us connect our multiple cultures and lifestyles together and to the environment.

Just as our ancestors faced the prospect of extinction thousands of years ago our very near descendants are once again facing the very real prospect of extinction. This time, though, it’s because of the way we live. The Point Discovery Centre will work towards reversing this imminent danger, learning from our past.

Cave PP13B is inscribed on UNESCO's tentative list for World Heritage status and enjoy protection in South Africa as a heritage site.