Belgium’s No.1 tennis player Elise Mertens partners with Beabond to launch the Mountain Gorilla Tag in support of Virunga National Park and their efforts around the critically endangered gorilla population. For example, the world population of mountain gorillas is currently estimated to be around 1,000 individuals; Virunga is home to a third of those remaining.
The Mountain Gorilla Tag is an exclusive necklace with a unique design featuring the footprint of a gorilla and a responsibly minded and ethically sourced one cent Botswana diamond.
Mertens, currently ranked WTA No.18 and the 2021 Australian Open women’s doubles champion, is an avid animal lover. She grew up in Belgium surrounded by animals – current count is 5 dogs, 2 turtles, goldfish and variety of birds (chickens, rainbow birds, pheasants). Moreover, she is an advocate for pet adoption.
“To me, home is where my dogs are,” exclaims Mertens. “As we travel so much with tennis, my dogs just always bring a sense of home. They are always so happy to see me no matter what happened on the tennis court; they are always happy and so loyal. If I didn’t play tennis, or when my playing career has finished, I want to do something with animals.”
Mertens has been inspired by the work of Virunga National Park and its Rangers. Virunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. In short, it is Africa’s most biologically diverse protected area that exists to protect over one thousand species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians and provide a brighter future to more than four million people affected by conflict.
The Rangers risk their lives daily to defend the park from poachers, militants and environmental factors.“It’s a dream of mine to visit Africa – to visit the park, see the animals and meet the Rangers and team who work so hard every day.” Mertens continues, “I’m honoured to wear an official Rangers badge on my tennis bag which has inspired me to do more. This necklace and campaign is just a small way to show support and bring attention to the important work they do.”
The Mountain Gorilla Tag is a timeless piece with a unique design featuring the footprint of a gorilla and a responsibly minded and ethically sourced one cent Botswana diamond. In conclusion, the necklace is available in 9K Gold plated brass, on an adjustable chain with lobster clasp; the tag is 11mm by 9mm. The exclusive necklace will retail for €100 plus shipping.
Most importantly, Elise Mertens and Beabond, are proud to donate 30% of the sales from each necklace to Virunga National Park. Available online at Beabond to purchase: www.beabondworld.com
